We are a family of 4 (2 teens), plus grandmother and are traveling on Carnival's Imagination for Christmas - stopping at Belize and Costa Maya. Anyone joining us? Have you ever cruised over Christmas? Is it recognized? Do they decorate and/or celebrate? Will the formal night be Christmas Eve? It's a 5 night trip. Thanks for all your help. This is a great Message Board!

I have not cruised on Christmas yet (this year I will), but have cruised on 4th of July and Thanksgiving 2x plus plenty of times in December before Christmas.<BR><BR>On holidays, we have had a special menu. For example, on Thanksgiving, the traditional Thanksgiving dinner was offered. They also had a beautiful food display in the atrium with Turkeys made of cheese, olives, etc. . <BR><BR>On 4th of July, they had an &quot;American&quot; meal with catchy names &quot;Besty Ross bbq ribs&quot;, etc. . .This was also a special menu with the Constitution on one side and the menu on the other.<BR><BR>The ships will be decorated for Christmas. They are normally decorated around Thanksgiving and stay up until New Years. I wouldn't be surprised if the waiters wear Santa hats or something. <BR><BR>It will be special.

Thanks Theresa! Will you be on this ship?

Cindy -- a few years ago, I was on a Carnival cruise from December 21 through January 2nd.<BR><BR>The ship was beautifully decorated with seasonal displays for Christmas and Hanukah, decorated trees, menorahs, garlands, Santa Clauses -- all done very attractively. Special menus were offered through the holiday season such as turkey/dressing, pumpkin/mince meat pies, and dradels of those of Jewish faith. I think all the passengers were happy to be there for the festivities.<BR><BR>Incidently, I was surprised at the number of 2 and 3-generation family groups -- they carried gifts onboard in big shopping bags, had their special time together -- seemed a great idea to me. <BR><BR>Religious services were offered for various faiths and it appeared they were well-attended. <BR><BR>I think your family will have a great time. Who knows -- since you'll be in the tropics, maybe Santa will arrive in scuba gear. Enjoy!

I will be on Sun Princess Dec 16-26.<BR><BR>Have a great time on your cruise