It may seem unbelievable that December is already here, but on the island of Roatan, preparations for Christmas are already being made. And while it might seem weird to be spending Christmas on a tropical island, who wouldn’t jump at the chance to escape the cold and the snow and trade it for the sun and the sand? If you’re thinking about celebrating Christmas in Roatan, we’ve put together a post to let you know what you might expect.
It’s Still A White Christmas In Roatan!
You might think that temperatures in the 80s (or higher!) might negate the possibility of a white Christmas, but in Roatan, we’ve just replaced the snow with sand! Roatan is world-famous for its soft, powdery white sand and crystal clear turquoise blue waters. Have no fear, just because you’re in the Caribbean doesn’t mean there’s a lack of Christmas spirit – just the opposite! There are plenty of holiday festivities to make your Christmas special.
A Time Of Giving
Life on a small island creates a close-knit community. One that becomes even more generous and giving during the holiday season. There are a wide variety of annual events centered around raising money and goods for those in need. The Roatan Rotary Club puts on an annual formal dress Christmas Gala featuring dinner, live music and a silent auction to support local charities. Roatan Because We Care is another charitable organization that holds food drives to help those in need during the holiday season and beyond. Many other organizations help islanders all year round, but hold special events around Christmas to ensure everybody enjoys the holiday season. Feel free to join in and help those in need at the same time.
An Island Christmas
Roatan’s residents are primarily Christian with Christmas being the biggest holiday of the year. Although the weather may be a little different than what you’re used to, the rest will seem comfortably familiar. You’ll find many of the island’s vacation rentals and holiday homes getting into the spirit of the season by offering special promotions and add-ons for the Christmas holidays. You’ll see nativity scenes at most houses around the island. You may find a decorated palm tree instead of a spruce tree, bonfires on the beach instead of at the bottom of a tobogganing hill and fireworks shot out over the sea rather than over the snow.
Celebrate Noche Buena (Christmas Eve)
Noche Buena is Christmas Eve. You’ll recognize it by the sound of fireworks that culminate at midnight. The island’s children will be proudly wearing a gift of new clothes and shoes to church service while gifts will be exchanged among loved ones. A midnight feast of tamales, roast pig, chicken and sometimes turkey is often garnished with gifts of red apples and grapes.