A Very Caribbean New Year's Eve

Let's talk about a very Caribbean New Year's Eve, shall we? There are so many traditions in the world that not everyone is aware of. It's so fun to see how the Caribbean celebrates everything. The Caribbean is so lively and colorful, always known for being the life of the party. From Junkanoo to Onion Drop, there is a little something for all! 

Junkanoo in the Bahamas 

Junkanoo is a several-day celebration in the Bahamas. Imagine Mardi Gras meets holiday celebrations. The parade is held twice a year, on December 26th and January 1st, throughout the Bahamas, but it is most well-known in Nassau. 

The celebration originated in West Africa and has been celebrated in the Bahamas since the 18th century. The elaborate costumes have been updated, but the instruments still use traditional materials.  

The drums are made of goat skin, and the bells still mark time as Junkanoo continues. The celebration makes its way through the streets until the early dawn hours. Here is an idea: Visit the Junkanoo Museum on your next visit to the Bahamas to experience the festivities at any time of the year. 

Onion Drop in Bermuda 

Does this name sound familiar to you? I'm sure you've heard of New York City's Big Apple drop; this is the equivalent of a big onion in Bermuda. Sound strange? It makes more sense when you understand that onions are one of the island's most significant crops and culinary staples. 

So, for this New Year's countdown tradition, they flip their calendars and drop a giant paper-mache onion covered with twinkling lights from the town hall in St. George. People celebrate this giant onion dropping while dancing and singing to music paired with local foods. The celebration is followed by a grand fireworks show. 

Old Year's Festivities in the BVI 

Usually, when we talk about celebrating the beginning of something, we call it "new" in the US. However, this festivity is called "old years." It is celebrated the entire month in the British Virgin Islands. 

They are famous for boating and yachting during the celebration, which includes their boat-hopping parties. These parties often have multiple stops at beach bars and tiny islands as thousands join in for this one fun night. 

Certain restaurants and bars hold a two-day celebration for the "old year," keeping the party going with boat hopping, barbecuing lobster, costumes, dancing to live music, fireworks, and festivities until the start of New Year's Day. 

Your New Year Celebrations 

Whatever you celebrate and wherever you live, we hope you enjoy the holidays with friends and family. If you want to try something new this year, schedule a trip to the Caribbean and celebrate a different tradition with fantastic food, street parties, and boat hopping. 

CITED: www.marlintravel.ca, www.suitelifeyachting.com, www.thetravelcurrent.com