Christmas Island boasts a rich blend of cultures, fostering a diverse, lively, and welcoming community that traces its roots back to the island's phosphate mining history, which drew people from the Cocos (Keeling) Islands to Canton to Canberra. The island still reflects a cultural makeup not dissimilar to when it was part of the Singaporean Straits Colonies. Today there are approximately 1200 residents who come from across Asia and the West and speak a range of regional languages in addition to English.

The island's linguistic tapestry has evolved over time, with early settlers using English and Cocos Malay, a distinct version of Bahasa Melayu isolated for over 150 years. Cantonese, spoken by early Chinese arrivals, influenced many of this Island’s names. A number of early place names around the island are Cantonese words – such as Poon Saan- literally meaning half way up the hill. Post-war immigrants introduced additional Chinese languages like Hakka, Hainanese, Hokkien, and Teochew. The Malay community widely speaks Bahasa Melayu. Christmas Islanders of all backgrounds today have taken to using multiple languages in the same sentence, very often to talk about everyone’s favourite common language – food. ‘Eh, makan time, ah. Lai, eat!’ (It is time to eat, come, let’s eat!)

Christmas Island's dining scene is a celebration of its diverse cultural blend, offering a culinary journey from spicy Asian delights to contemporary Western cuisine. From traditional grills to colonial settings and laid-back pub options, the island's restaurants, cafes, and pubs cater to various tastes, providing not only delectable meals but also opportunities to unwind amid breathtaking views.

For a more casual experience, take advantage of the island's numerous picnic and barbecue venues, where you can assemble your own hamper using supplies from local shops and locally sourced produce when available.

It's important to note that during Ramadan, Chinese New Year, and Christmas, cafe and restaurant options may be limited. The Visitor Information Centre can provide details on establishments open during your visit. As a considerable amount of food on Christmas Island is imported, prices for meals may be slightly higher than in other locations due to additional transportation costs.

It is suggested that ladies should dress modestly out of respect in the Kampong area.

Shoes should be removed before entering a house, temple or mosque.

Muslims use their right hand for eating, giving and receiving and will appreciate if you do the same when meeting them.

There are dietary requirements which some of the different religions must adhere.

Refrain from touching a persons head.

Visitors are welcome to enter and photograph the Chinese Temples and join in the celebrations.

Halal BBQs are located on Christmas Island. Please do not use these to cook non Halal food items.

Christmas Islanders have a range of faiths from Chinese folk religions, to Buddhism, to Islam, Ba’hai, Christianity and Catholicism. It is the only place in Australia where the Lunar New Year, Eid Mubarak, Easter and Christmas are all public holidays. One can find mosques, madrasahs, Taoist temples and Catholic churches within the township and around a dozen Taoist shrines and temples in the forests of the National Park.

See our What’s On page. The island certainly has more holidays and festivals than most places, but this is a product of its multicultural mix. Exact dates may vary from year to year however you can check by contacting the Christmas Island Tourism Association.