Christmas is in the air

As you can imagine I am knee deep in Christmas preparations and trying to keep my head above water while getting it all done.
Thank goodness most of the shopping has been completed and all gifts wrapped, the tree is up and I should complete my supermarket shopping today along with baking my Christmas Rum cakes.
I happened to be in the city a few days ago enjoying the beauty of the well adorned stores, the bustling shoppers, the gaiety of my fellow Bajans and indeed the whole "Christmasey" atmosphere, when...........
I stumbled across a most beautiful sight as I approached Jubilee Gardens.

The Royal Commonwealth Society Barbados Branch was hosting its 4th Annual  "Christmas In The Square" series.
Eighty eight beautifully decorated trees representing the Caribbean and other Commonwealth countries had been placed throughout the city in Jubilee Gardens, Independence Square, Heroes Square and the Post Office amphitheatre.
Little did I know that I was in for a special treat.

Shoppers hustled on by, but with so much beauty around me I couldn't help but stop to admire.

 As I continued onward through the city to Independence Square, I admired all the store front displays and enjoyed the Christmas music that floated through the open doors.
At Independence Square I was in for more beauty.

Trees decorated by schools, youth groups and organisations.

 

Christmas Trees of The Commonwealth.
I learned a lot that day.....some countries I had no idea were members of The Commonwealth.

 

 Decorations made with recycled and re-purposed materials.
I spy Popsicle sticks and bottle caps.

 Aluminum can flowers and pinwheels.

From the Facebook website.
" Founded in 1868, the RCS conducts a range of events and activities aimed at promoting international understanding.
Its educational, youth and cultural programmes include the world’s oldest and largest schools essay competition and an innovative international youth leadership programme.
Headquartered at the Commonwealth Club in London, the RCS has over 4000 members in the UK and a presence in 40 Commonwealth countries through a network of branches."

https://www.thercs.org/
https://www.facebook.com/pg/RCSBarbados/about/?ref=page_internal

I didn't make it to Heroes Square or the General Post Office amphitheatre where more trees were displayed, but hopefully I can pop by before the holidays are over.