If there’s one place on this planet that knows how to celebrate culture and heritage, it’s the Caribbean. The islands play host to a multitude of events and festivals each year. From music festivals to culinary fares, regattas and other sporting events, there’s something for everyone and anyone to enjoy. We’ve selected a handful of upcoming events from across the islands that are the perfect excuse to plan your next island escape this year.
Barbados
March 4 – Sandy Lane Gold Cup
The Sandy Lane Gold Cup is the most esteemed event on the island, and possibly in the Eastern Caribbean. Enticing worldwide visitors to flock to the Garrison Savannah and watch the races over a turf course, the event attracts both regional and local jockeys to compete. Spending some time in the sun on the shimmering West Coast of Barbados next month? Why not take a break from the beach to cheer on your favourite to win! And don’t stop there – with classic rum distilleries, botanical gardens, natural wonders and views that stretch for miles, there’s so much to see and do on this paradisal isle.
Antigua
April 28 – Sailing Week
This regatta in Antigua has to be one of the most renowned sailing events in the world. The week-long event is arranged at Nelson’s Dockyard and you’ll be blown away at the sheer variety of boats and yachts that make the journey to this stunning island to compete and partake in the regatta. Why not set up shop in the UNESCO World Heritage site of Nelson’s Dockyard for the week to cheer on the sailors and take in one of the best sites on Antigua. We love teaming different areas of the island to give our Turquoise clients the opportunity to experience the best Antigua has to offer, so why not add on a few more days and relax on the West Coast – who would say no to a few more days in the sun!
Anguilla
May 3 – Culinary Experience
If you’d rather not stay rooted to one spot, why not hop over to idyllic Antigua after taking in some Antigua Sailing Week action? Less than a week later, Anguilla showcases a 4-day epicurean event featuring local and international chefs across the island’s resorts. It’s the perfect time for any foodie to be on the island! Get stuck into a schedule of activities from resort beach parties, restaurant nights, and exclusive chef dinners where you’ll be offered tantalising menus paired with the most delicious wines. Afterwards, spend some time soaking in the sun on one of Anguilla’s serene beaches with a good book and a refreshing cocktail!
St Lucia
May 5 – Jazz & Arts Festival
Calling all music lovers! This 30-year long annual festival has enticed artists and visitors to return to St Lucia for a unique experience time and time again. It could be argued that St. Lucia’s music festival is the best in the Caribbean, and possibly the world. You’ll find the main stage situated on Pigeon Island where you can dance the night away under the stars with the freshest of breezes while some of the best international and local bands perform. After a night of dancing, rejuvenate those weary legs and feet in the Sulphur Spring Mud Baths. You’ll feel as good as new!
Grenada
May 17 – Chocolate Festival
Chocolate?! Say no more… Grenada’s Chocolate Festival platforms the island’s rich cocoa farming origins and sweet chocolate heritage. This is the perfect time for chocolate lovers to visit the spice isle as there’s plenty of opportunity to tour cocoa plantations, enjoy workshops, have a go at making your very own signature chocolate and even indulge in cocoa infused cuisine. The festival inspires you to think outside of the box when it comes to chocolate making. Did you know chocolate was used as a savoury ingredient for 3,000 years before it started to get used for sweetness! Eaten too much chocolate? Grenada is teaming with some fantastic hiking trails; head up to Grand Etang National Park to work some of that chocolate off…or simply lie back on one of the best beaches in the Caribbean – Grand Anse – you are on holiday after all!
St Kitts & Nevis
July 13 – Restaurant Week
Each year, St Kitts & Nevis host a restaurant week with a different featured local ingredient. This year it’s sweet potato! It’s a commemoration of their local gastronomy; presenting residents and visitors the best opportunity to experience customised menus with a local theme. Combine your foodie journey with a rich in culture tour around former plantations and charming colonial towns. The untouched natural surroundings of both islands leave visitors wanting to come back again and again.
