Celebrate Christmas in Turks and Caicos
It’s the most wonderful time of year, in the most wonderful place in the world
Ever thought of forgoing blustery winds, freezing temperatures, and numb fingers and toes for a Christmas in paradise? Feel like doing something unique for the holiday season this year? Then consider swapping fir trees for palms, and spend your Christmas holiday in the Turks & Caicos Islands.
The Turks & Caicos is a truly magical place: Impossibly turquoise seas. Powdery white sand. And a rejuvenating warmth that persists even in the dead of winter. Combine that island magic with the the magic of the holidays, and you’ve got the perfect recipe.
Here, you can dig your toes in the sand on a secluded beach, ride horses along the seashore and sip a cocktail on your balcony while you gaze at one of our world-famous sunsets. And forget the layers and winter coats. All you need here is your swim suit and some light clothing.
In the Turks & Caicos, the average temperatures in December and January hover in the low 80’s. So why skip the snow shoveling this favor in favor of a tropical Christmas?
The magic of the Turks & Caicos holiday season isn’t lost on celebrities like Brad Pitt and Taylor Swift. But what makes it so special that visitors keep coming back every season?
Enjoy Christmas lights on Grace Bay Beach
Every holiday season, the Christmas spirit is on full display around Grace Bay. Each resort creates its own beautifully unique holiday display — many of them on a grand scale that will fill you with that Christmas giddiness. Hotels and resorts usually decorate their own Christmas tree that greets you when you arrive in the lobby, and don’t be surprised to find tinsel and other holiday decor in your room as well.
As the sun goes down, you can enjoy a string of bright lights along Grace Bay. And for a truly special experience, be sure not to miss the annual Christmas tree lighting ceremony at the Seven Stars Resort.
December festivals in Turks & Caicos
The lights, the trees, the tinsel — it’s all just the beginning. The Turks & Caicos adds its own personality and flair to the winter holiday season, with festivals, beach parties and other activities happening right through New Year’s.
Maskanoo Parade (December 26)
After Christmas Day, the Turks & Caicos-flavored winter celebrations kick off with the Maskanoo parade on Dec. 26. This event is a masquerade festival deeply rooted in African tradition.
The masquerade tradition of Maskanoo comes from the rituals of African slaves brought to the Turks & Caicos in the 18th and 19th centuries to work on salt plantations. Today, Maskanoo is a reminder of the islands’ history, unique culture and lively spirit.
The Maskanoo parade is one for all the senses with its brightly colored costumes, glittery masks and rhythmic drum beats. The parade follows a route on Grace Bay Road in Providenciales. Smaller celebrations are held in Grand Turk and Middle Caicos as well. While you watch the parade, grab some delicious island cuisine and get yourself some local handmade crafts from one of the local vendors that set up along the road.
New Year’s Eve in Turks & Caicos
For New Year’s Eve parties, check with local restaurants to see about live music, special gourmet dishes and more festivities. Rickie’s Flamingo Cafe celebrates with a big beach bonfire and live music, while Magnolia and Coyaba often offer special treats and desserts. Nearly every restaurant in the Turks and Caicos offers special festive menus, as well as live entertainment for the Christmas season.
Most people spend the evening on the beach celebrating. The atmosphere is fun, safe and festive as everyone waits for the midnight countdown — and that’s when an array of fireworks displays begin all along Grace Bay Beach.
The New Year’s fireworks are a major highlight as you can see them from one end of the island (Amanyara) all the way to the other end (Blue Haven Resort in Leeward). It’s an incredible sight — the sky illuminated in a colorful display all along the beach. And it’s a tradition that locals never miss.
Old Year’s Night
New Year’s Eve starts off with an island tradition called Old Year’s Night. Late into the night, the mostly Catholic island dwellers of the Turks and Caicos attend church services and church bells ring out into the night to bring good luck into the New Year.
Celebrate with the locals, or relax at your resort
But, of course, you can celebrate Christmas and New Year’s any way you choose in the Turks and Caicos, including in the quiet and privacy of your luxury resort. Let lavish accommodations and top-notch, attentive service give you the peace, relaxation and good vibes that this joyous holiday season should bring.
Where to stay
But rooms get booked very fast, so if you want to experience it all, it’s best to book early. Two-and-three-bedroom suites are generally the first to book up, followed by one-bedrooms and studios.
Seven Stars Resort Turks and Caicos
Bask in the luxury and opulence of Seven Stars Resort. Located right on the beautiful shores of the Atlantic, and flanking the Princess Alexandra National Park (home to bright coral reefs, turtles, lobsters and friendly dolphins), this resort has it all: an expansive pool, tennis courts, a spa, full fitness center, fine dining and cabana beds that overlook the ocean.
It’s also a centrally-located resort, close to downtown, with walking access to the restaurant strip, boutiques, grocery store, and much more.
A stay at the Seven Star Resort would be the ultimate gift to give to yourself and your family.
Amanyara Resort
Or perhaps you would enjoy the serenity of the beautiful Amanyara Resort. With pavilions, luxury villas, a reflecting pond, an infinity pool, lush vegetation, and dramatic views of the ocean, Amanyara truly lives up to its name. “Aman” is the Sanskrit word for “peace,” and “yara” is the word for “place.” If you need a dose of tranquility this holiday season, the Amanyara Resort is for you.
The Venetian on Grace Bay
And here’s one more to consider: the quiet and elegant Venetian. Situated on a deserted strip of beautiful Grace Bay on Providenciales, the Venetian is a sleek and sophisticated resort. This property is replete with oceanfront views, tennis courts and lush gardens. Stay here, and by the time you leave you’ll likely be ready to book your next visit.
Best of all, this quiet location at the east end of Grace Bay Beach is perfect for families who want to enjoy a private vacation together.
Planning your Christmas in Turks & Caicos
Whatever you choose, consider booking early as Christmas is the most popular time to visit the islands for repeat visitors. If you book today with Turks & Caicos Reservations, you can take part in our Booking Perks program. Rewards may include free car rentals, restaurant gift cards, island tour vouchers and more.
Give yourself the ultimate gift of a Christmas spent in a warm, tropical paradise.
See you over the holidays!