Celebrate the Holiday’s Island-Style: Christmas in Bermuda

If you’re looking for a unique and exciting Christmas escape, look no further than Bermuda. The December holidays here are a special time to experience a taste of the culture, tradition, and joy of Bermuda’s people. Here are five things to do if you’re around this winter: 

Attend Holiday Events and Markets

From the Rockin’ Around the City Tree event to the Lighting of the Town ceremonies, there’s a festive spirit that seems to fill every corner of the island. But, the real magic happens during the annual Bermuda National Trust Christmas Walkabout, where you can stroll through the streets of St. George’s while carolers sing classic holiday tunes. The best part? Touring the candlelit historic homes and properties, beautifully decorated for the festive season, and then finishing off the evening enjoying the musical entertainment in the town square while sipping on your hot cocoa or mulled wine.

Indulge in Bermuda’s Traditional Holiday Foods

Get ready to indulge in some seriously tasty and unique dishes this holiday season in Bermuda. With a twist on traditional favourites, Bermudian cuisine will surely surprise your taste buds.

Start your day with a festive Eggnog Latte or Gingerbread Mocha from Rock Island Coffee or Brew in Hamilton. For lunch or dinner, head to Village Pantry (Flatt’s Village), Wahoo’s (St. George’s), Barracuda Grill (Hamilton) or Blu Restaurant (Warwick) for hearty seasonal dishes made with our spiny or guinea chick lobsters, or try traditional Bermudian sides like Hoppin’ John, paw-paw (papaya) casserole, fish chowder or cassava pie. And don’t forget the star of the show: Bermuda’s version of rum cake, infused with the rich flavours of the island’s famous Goslings Black Seal rum.

Add Island Touch to your Holiday Shopping

Why not add an authentic island touch to your Christmas gifts this year by shopping for Bermudian-inspired items? With a wide variety of unique and locally made gifts, you’re sure to find something for everyone on your list.

Start on Front Street in Hamilton, where you can browse through shops filled with jewelry, clothing, accessories, home décor and of course, fun Bermuda souvenirs.

1. Alexandra Mosher: Known for their distinctive pink sand jewelry – take a look at their special Bermuda Icons Collection.

2. Tabs: Who wouldn’t love a pair of famous, authentic Bermuda shorts for Christmas? Order on their website or visit them in-store to see the range of other island-inspired gifts.

3. Atelerie: A perfectly curated women’s boutique – find everything from a gorgeous collection of high-end Bermuda souvenirs to fine jewelry and stunning homeware.

4. Flying Colours: A more casual selection of souvenirs, including quality Bermuda t-shirts, sweatshirts, hats, mugs, calendars and more!

5. The Island Shop: Featuring upscale Bermuda-inspired home décor, accessories, hand painted ceramics and gifts – shop their online store or hand select your items in person. Our favourites are their scented Fir Christmas candles and their sea life ornaments!

6. Waterfront Man: Find the best men’s apparel and gifts for those hard-to-shop-for and golf-loving men in your life! Carrying popular brands including Peter Millar, Ralph Lauren and Psycho Bunny.

If your journey leads you to the charming town of St. George’s, meander through its quaint streets and explore the local boutiques:

1. Lisa Rego Art: If you’re looking for a special way to remember your Bermuda vacation, consider gifting a piece of art. This gallery caters to every budget with options ranging from mini-prints, to unique chopping boards for cooking enthusiasts, to incredible stretched canvases.

2. Long Story Short: Visit this award-winning retail store with unique gifts and tour services. They offer a collection of best-selling books and gift ideas, including candles, baskets, blankets, kitchen & barware, sauces, and more.

3. The Bermuda Perfumery: Pick up a one-of-a-kind fragrance inspired by the island’s natural beauty, housed in one of St. George’s historic homesteads.

Need more shopping inspiration? Visit our “Shopping in Bermuda” blog post for a full list of stores!

Watch the Gombey Dancers

If you’re fortunate enough to be in Bermuda on Boxing Day, make sure to mark your calendars to see the Gombey Dancers in action. These talented performers have been entertaining crowds for centuries with their pulsing drums and rhythmic dance moves, all while showcasing a unique blend of African, Caribbean and British cultural influences. The streets of Hamilton come alive with the beat of their drums and the vibrant colors of their costumes – the perfect backdrop for sipping on a Rum Swizzle and sharing the fun with friends and family.

Decorate a Bermuda Cedar Tree

If you’re spending Christmas here, consider adding a little island flair to your holiday decorating this year with a Bermuda Cedar Tree – a perfect touch of Bermudian charm to your festive décor. Start by picking out your tree, one that’s full and fragrant with that unmistakable cedar scent and get creative. Bermudians love to decorate with lights and colorful ornaments, from traditional red and green baubles to more unique island-inspired decorations like seashells, sand dollars or even sea glass.

However, if you’re only in Bermuda for a short time, consider taking an ornament home with you. The Island Shop offers a great selection, and local jewelry shop Walker Christopher creates an original sterling silver Bermuda-inspired ornament each year. These ornaments make excellent gifts – or can be a start to your own collection!  

Our island is a wonderful place to experience the joy and warmth of the festive season, with plenty of things to see and do. Make sure to check out Bermuda’s events calendar for a full line-up of events.