One of the most delightful signs of Christmas in Tortola is the annual “Deck Your Yard” competition that brings the Christmas spirit right into every home on the island.

The idea took hold several years ago, when the East Beautification Committee and the British Virgin Islands Tourist Board thought it would be a fun thing for Tortola residents to get their homes and gardens holiday ready.  Today, a competition runs from Thanksgiving to Christmas, and families get together to creatively deck out their homes with holiday joy.

There are cash prizes for first, second and third place winners, decided after Christmas ends, and a number of local businesses kick in gift certificates and free prizes for other entrants.

Festive yards are judged twice – once mid-December and once after Christmas.  They are judged on cleanliness, maintenance and plant choice and design.  Some people just use the season as an excuse to cut the lawn and freshen the plants.  Others go all out, creating an explosion of festive color.

If you have planned a Christmas vacation at any one of the many gorgeous Tortola villas, you are in for a treat.  The nice thing about choosing tropical island villas for your vacation is that you are staying in a real neighborhood, surrounded by locals who are full of the holiday spirit.  You don’t have to put any work into your garden, since the grounds are maintained for you, but you certainly get the chance to enjoy the festive beauty all around.

Next year, why don’t you consider villas in Tortola for your Christmas vacation?  Leave the snow and cold behind, and trade it in for a festive season of lush tropical gardens, warm Caribbean breezes and a house to call your own on the gorgeous island of Tortola.