Christmas Events in the Turks & Caicos Islands

Island Thyme Christmas Tree Ornament Contest on Salt Cay

Everyone has a Christmas tree ornament with a story behind it. But sometimes it’s a collection of ornaments that really tells a story.

On one small island in the Turks and Caicos, it isn’t really Christmas until islanders design and create the tree ornaments.

Celebrated annually on Salt Cay off Grand Turk Island, is the Island Thyme Christmas Tree Ornament Contest. Contestants are asked to submit hand-made creations which are juried for prizes.

For the most part, the contest focuses on ornaments created by local artists in the islands, but there have also been occasions where visiting tourists have joined in the fun and submitted an ornament.

“Ten years ago, my wife entered and won the very first Christmas tree ornament contest. I was impressed to see it on this year’s tree and in like new condition!” shared one reviewer on TripAdvisor.

There are many Christmas events in the Turks & Caicos Islands, but this one is the brainchild of the owners of Porter’s Island Thyme bistro and pub, Porter and Haidee Williams, who have been cooking and serving meals, hosting parties, and entertaining visitors on Salt Cay for many years. They show a generosity of spirit and zest for life that is infectious.

“Porter and his wife are amazing people. It’s their personalities that spill over into the rest of the establishment. When you are there, you are a friend,” said another reviewer on TripAdvisor.

Porter and Haidee thrive on community spirit and host an array of events throughout the year, and the Christmas season is no exception. Over the years they have welcomed visitors into their restaurant and served up both a unique Greek dinner and a traditional full course Christmas dinner, they’ve coordinated colouring contests for children, they’ve put together the annual Children’s Christmas party. The ornament contest not only inspires locals to get creative but helps the community to begin to prepare for Christmas.

The tree ornament contest is definitely an eagerly anticipated island event each year. It is just one more way Porter’s Island Thyme celebrates their community and provides a unique tradition for Turks and Caicos folk to celebrate their Caribbean Christmas.

Providenciales to Salt Cay

If you are staying at Villa del Mar during the holiday period, you can plan a day trip to Salt Cay with ease. Regular arline service from Providenciales to Salt Cay is provided by interCaribbean Airways and Caicos Express Airways.

Contact Villa del Mar to arrange your stay on Turks and Caicos this Christmas season.