ABACO, The Bahamas - Residents and visitors alike will come together to enjoy a special and unique event in Hope Town as they hosted their Annual Christmas Village featuring the Bahamas’ very own ice skating rink.

The Bahamas’ only ice skating rink is back again for the third annual Hope Town Christmas Village Festival held at Jarret’s Park in Hope Town, December 16 – 18.
Hope Town will come alive with Christmas decorations, live music and bustling activity for what Monica Cook, founder of the festival, describes as the spirit of community.

“The Hope Town Christmas Festival brings the whole community together – locals, visitors, residents from Hope Town, the main island of Abaco and various other cays in the region. It is a celebration of what the Christmas spirit can be for a community and gives visitors an experience of an island Christmas – the special nature of the Out Islands, Abaco and, the historic village of Hope Town,” she said.

Visitors preparing to visit Hope Town for the festival can expect nightly music, bouncing castles and craft activities for the kids, delicious food from local vendors and an appearance from Santa.
Cook said this event reflects the dynamic nature of the community.

“This event helps Hope Town share with others what is so special about living and visiting here, the vibrant nature of our community. It also helps to bring in visitors at a special time of year, which helps to benefit all local businesses and resorts,” she said.

Wynsome Ferguson, Manager of the Abaco Tourist Office, said this event is one of the favorites on the island.
“Hope Town, known as the Hollywood of Abaco, will continue with the island’s Christmas festivities. Patrons will experience a winter wonderland, island style. Locals and visitors look forward to this event because of the variety of product offerings, from a skating rink to snow falling; it’s a Christmas treat,” she said.

For all patrons attending the festival, Albury’s Ferry and G&L Ferry Services will be leaving Hope Town, every night of the festival at 9:30, to travel to Marsh Harbour and Man-O-War Cay, respectively.