With Christmas in the air, everyone wants to make their home as welcoming as possible for the holidays. If you’re abroad, you might be wondering how to capture that Jamaican Christmas spirit in your own home. So, here are 12 things that make a Jamaican home look festive for the holidays.

1. Hang a Few Pepper Lights

Conscious of electricity consumption, some Jamaicans hang just a few pepper lights in a nice design on the front of their homes, lighting them up mainly on the big day to add that festive touch.

2. Poinsettia

This plant, with its striking red and green foliage, is a Christmas favorite. In Jamaica, poinsettias are traditionally abundant during the festive season. Dotting a few around your house can bring in the traditional Jamaican Christmas feel.

3. Blue, Green, and Red Christmas Balls

To really bring that Jamaican Christmas vibe into your home, adorn your space with these colourful ornaments. They’re especially handy if you’re compensating for fewer pepper lights.

4. Virgin Mary Figurine

Often found in the homes of the more religious, particularly Catholics or Anglicans, this figurine adds a devout touch to the Christmas decorations.

5. One Large Gold Star

Representing the Star of Bethlehem, this is a significant decoration. Place it atop your Christmas tree or hang it around your house for a festive flair.

6. Black Friday Curtains and New Linens

A major part of the Jamaican Christmas is changing up the home’s look with new curtains and linens. These fresh additions are essential for Jamaican mamas to feel the holiday spirit.

7. Unbox New Small Appliances

In Jamaica, special tableware and appliances usually make their appearance during Christmas, adding to the festive atmosphere. They’re often packed away again until the next holiday season.

8. Wreath

For a festive look that doesn’t hike up the electricity bill, a wreath on your door is a perfect choice. It’s a subtle yet classic way to spread holiday cheer.

9. Tiny Santas

These fun, plastic Santa figurines can be placed around your home or on your Christmas tree to add a playful holiday element.

10. Shiny Fur Boas

These versatile decorations can be used in various creative ways, like crafting a makeshift wall tree. They are a hallmark of Christmas decor flexibile.

11. Fresh Coat of Paint

Giving your home a new coat of paint is a common Jamaican tradition to freshen up for the season. It’s all about making the home look brand new and ready for Christmas.

12. Gifts

And, of course, like many cultures around the world, well-wrapped and thoughtfully placed Christmas gifts are the final touch in Jamaican holiday decorating.

These 12 elements combine to create a festive, warm, and distinctly Jamaican atmosphere in any home during the Christmas season.