The warm and friendly locals of Barbados just love to celebrate - any excuse for a party, music and dancing. Throughout the year there are a whole host of amazing events and festivals to enjoy where the island comes alive with that infectious Caribbean spirit that makes coming here so irresistible. We've selected some of our favourite unmissable festivals going on in Barbados this year.
OISTIN'S FISH FESTIVAL
20 - 22 April 2019
The Oistins Fish Festival takes place every Easter weekend in the quaint fishing village of Oistins, Christ Church, on the south coast of the island. This small village comes alive with a lively party atmosphere, where the local fishermen cook their catch of the day, which they serve up with helpings of macaroni pie and lots of fresh salad. There's activities for the whole family to enjoy, go early if you want to browse the souvenir stalls, or later for the dancing and partying which will take you into the early hours.
CROP OVER FESTIVAL
04 May - 05 August 2019
The most famous festival in Barbados and by far the most fun time of year to be there, this fabulous six-week event marks the end of the Sugar Cane Crop season. We think it’s worth the trip alone to experience the exciting party atmosphere, where the celebrations never seem to end. From indigenous arts and crafts displays to calypso and folk concerts, culminating in the most energetic and colourful Grand Kadooment procession on the final night of the festivities, this is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for all ages to enjoy. Everyone dons elaborate costumes as they make their way through the streets, with fireworks, set against the picturesque backdrop of Brighton beach, lighting up the night and bringing the curtain down on weeks of revellery.
DIVE FEST BARBADOS
03 - 07 July 2019
This festival is all about the stunning oceans and marine life Barbados has to offer. Whether you're into swimming, diving, snorkelling or soaking up the views of the azure sea from your lounger on the beach, this festival has something for everyone. From scuba diving, freediving and water awareness demonstrations to beach clean ups, conservation courses and fishing!
BARBADOS FOOD & RUM FESTIVAL
24 - 27 October 2019
Foodies will delight at seeing some of the world’s top chefs descend on this vibrant island for a week of cooking demonstrations, tasting sessions and glamorous parties at the most indulgent festival imaginable. Take your tastebuds on a journey through Bajan cuisine and rum at the annual Barbados Food & Rum Festival, which takes place in October this year. Featuring acclaimed international and local worldclass chefs, rum experts and mixologists, this event will introduce you to the best of Barbados food and drink. Watch renowned chefs whip up local dishes, visit markets bursting with mouthwatering street food, sample drinks prepared by expert mixologists, and try Bajan classics such as rice and peas, flying fish, cou-cou and macaroni pie.
If you'd like to find out more about the festival scene in Barbados, or any of our luxury hotels and resorts, give one of our expert travel advisers a call on 0207751 0660 or fill out the form below.
