Christmas in Bali
Read on for 7 ways to make the most of Christmas in Bali.
7 ways to spend Christmas in Bali
You may not be able to catch any glistening snow in Bali, but that doesn’t mean you can’t still have a ‘white’ Christmas in Bali! While Bali is mainly known for its black or brown sand beaches, there are a few where you can find white sand. You could use Christmas Day as an occasion to take a day trip to the beautiful island of West Nusa Tenggara. Famous for its white pristine sand, turquoise waters and great diving, the island is easily accessible via a 2 hour ferry ride. On the mainland, you can also find white sand beaches in the Southern region of Nusa Dua. Transport to either of these destinations can easily be organized by the Viceroy Bali.
Go shopping
Where could be better to do your last minute Christmas shopping for your loved ones (or yourself!) then Bali. From traditional markets and unique boutiques to department stores and factory outlets, there’s no shortage of places to nab yourself a bargain. In the Ubud area, there are countless markets that sell art, crafts and other knick knacks that make great gifts. Meanwhile, Canggu is great for surf shops and cool boutiques, while Kuta and Denpasar are great for bigger department stores.
Have a seafood feast on Christmas Eve
If you’re an Aussie, you’re probably accustomed to eating seafood on Christmas Eve. Thankfully, you can continue this tradition in Bali, with the island offering some of the world’s freshest and tastiest seafood. Jimbaran Bay on Bali’s southwestern coast is famous for its seafood restaurants, where you can enjoy the beach sunset while tucking into a delicious Christmas eve feast.
Go to a beach club
There’s no better time to visit a Bali beach club than Christmas day, with many venues getting into the Christmas spirit. Sundays Beach Club in Uluwatu holds a ‘Christmas on the Beach’ event, with a tasty festive menu featuring maple glazed pork and summer berry pudding and a bonfire on the beach. Meanwhile, Folk Pool and Garden in Ubud is hosting a beachside Christmas in Bali cookout on December 25th, where you can chill out and enjoy a BBQ feast and some cocktails.
Have a traditional Christmas lunch
You don’t have to forgot your home-cooked Christmas lunch just because you’re in Bali! There are plenty of restaurants and bars around the island that serve up a traditional roast. Jemme in Seminyak is famous for its roast, with turkey, pork, dinner all on the menu. Roasted Di Canggu also cooks up hearty roasts, which you can enjoy in the restaurant or take away for a beach picnic.
At the 5-star CasCades Restaurant at Viceroy Bali, you can enjoy an international feast amidst the lush jungle canopy.
Enjoy chilled Eggnog
Eggnog is a Christmas Day staple that is best served chilled — meaning you can still enjoy this tradition in the tropical climate! Copper Kitchen and Bar in Ubud will be serving up a refreshing peppermint eggnog mocktail with egg white, north pole cream, cinnamon and nutmeg essence, as well as a couple of festive cocktails. Meanwhile, IBU SUSU Bar and Kitchen near the monkey forest is known for serving up some of the island’s best ice-cold eggnog.
Watch the fireworks
In Balinese culture, it’s believed that fireworks can ward off evil spirits. So, the locals will take any opportunity for pyrotechnic celebration and Christmas is no exception! Most of the biggest beaches come alive with the technicolour sparks on both Christmas Eve and day. But for a truly spectacular show, head to one of the island’s Western-facing beaches to watch see the fireworks against the pastel sunset.
Relax at your resort
While Christmas in Western countries can be a chaotic time filled with frantic gift shopping and family commitments, your tropical vacation is the perfect opportunity to wind down and enjoy the festive season. With many hotels holding Christmas in Ubud Bali events or offering a Bali Christmas package, you don’t even have to leave the comfort of your resort to soak up the festive spirit. Lazy around your luxurious private villa at the Viceroy Bali and venture out for a Christmas brunch or buffet when it suits you — or order to your room!
Book your room at the Viceroy Bali to celebrate Christmas in Ubud Bali here.
