Best Places to Visit in Trinidad & Tobago for Christmas Cheer

Welcome to the vibrant and festive atmosphere of Trinidad & Tobago during the holiday season! As an expat or digital nomad, you'll find that this Caribbean nation comes alive with the spirit of Christmas in December. From bustling holiday markets to joyous parades, there's a wealth of places to visit that offer a unique blend of local traditions and festive cheer. Here are some of the top spots to get into the holiday spirit in Trinidad & Tobago.

Port of Spain

The capital city of Trinidad, Port of Spain, is a hub of holiday activity. The city comes alive with decorations and lights, particularly around the Savannah, which is the heart of the city's Christmas celebrations. One of the highlights is the annual Parang music festival, a traditional form of folk music that's synonymous with the Trinidadian Christmas. The festival usually takes place in early December and features a variety of local bands and performers. Additionally, the city hosts a Christmas market where you can find handcrafted gifts, local delicacies, and festive decorations.

We Recommend: Don't miss the chance to try some homemade pastelles, a traditional Christmas dish similar to tamales, which are often sold at the market. Pair it with a glass of sorrel, a refreshing local drink made from hibiscus flowers, which is particularly popular during the holidays.

San Fernando

San Fernando, Trinidad's second city, is known for its spectacular Christmas light displays. The King's Wharf area and Harris Promenade are particularly festive, with elaborate decorations and a sense of community cheer. The city also hosts a Christmas parade featuring colorful floats, costumed characters, and live music, typically held on a weekend in mid-December. The parade is a family-friendly event that brings together locals and visitors alike to celebrate the season.

We Recommend: Be sure to sample some of the local street food available during the parade, such as doubles and aloo pies, which are perfect for enjoying on-the-go as you take in the sights and sounds of the festivities.

Scarborough, Tobago

In Tobago, the town of Scarborough is the place to be for Christmas festivities. The Scarborough Market comes to life with vendors selling seasonal fruits, vegetables, and spices, as well as crafts and gifts perfect for the holiday season. The town also hosts a Christmas village where you can enjoy live entertainment, local food, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere that embodies the Tobagonian spirit.

We Recommend: Look out for the traditional Tobagonian black cake, a rich, spiced fruitcake that's a staple at Christmas. It's often made with rum and is a delicious treat to enjoy while exploring the market.

St. Clair Neighborhood in Port of Spain

The upscale neighborhood of St. Clair in Port of Spain is known for its elegant homes, which are beautifully decorated for the holidays. A stroll through the area offers a more subdued but equally enchanting Christmas experience, with twinkling lights and festive wreaths adorning the houses. The nearby Ellerslie Plaza often hosts a Christmas fair where you can find unique gifts and enjoy holiday-themed entertainment.

We Recommend: If you're in St. Clair, make sure to visit one of the local cafes for a cup of hot cocoa or coffee paired with a slice of fruitcake or sweet bread, a local favorite during the Christmas season.

Chaguanas

Chaguanas, located in Central Trinidad, is a bustling town known for its shopping and markets. During December, the Chaguanas Main Road transforms into a festive shopping destination with stores offering holiday sales and decorations. The Chaguanas Market is also a great place to find fresh produce and local crafts, making it ideal for picking up ingredients for a traditional Trini Christmas meal or finding that perfect handmade gift.

We Recommend: While in Chaguanas, try the local ginger beer, a non-alcoholic beverage that's a holiday favorite. It's spicy, refreshing, and perfect for the tropical climate.

Maraval Neighborhood in Port of Spain

Maraval, a residential area in Port of Spain, is known for its community spirit and festive decorations during the Christmas season. The neighborhood often hosts holiday events and caroling, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. The nearby Long Circular Mall is a popular spot for holiday shopping and seasonal activities, including visits from Santa Claus for the kids.

We Recommend: Don't leave Maraval without trying a glass of ponche de crème, the Trinidadian version of eggnog. It's a creamy, boozy treat that's perfect for toasting to the holiday season.

Arima

The town of Arima, located in the east of Trinidad, is a cultural hotspot with a rich Amerindian heritage. During December, Arima's festive spirit is on full display with a variety of Christmas events, including parang competitions and church services featuring traditional music. The Arima Dial, the town's central point, is a great place to soak in the holiday atmosphere with its surrounding decorations and festivities.

We Recommend: Experience the joy of a traditional Arima Christmas by attending a midnight mass at the Santa Rosa Roman Catholic Church, followed by a warm serving of homemade bread and ham, a local tradition after the service.