When it comes to travelling to the Caribbean, it’s not difficult to see where the appeal lies. There are crystal clear waters, white powdery sandy beaches, an abundance of wildlife and a slower-paced life that offers a welcome reprieve from busy schedules back home. But alongside its laid-back nature and relaxation are an abundance of festivals, events and celebrations that offer a completely different side for your break. From culinary festivals to art fairs and carnivals, there’s something for everyone.
Whether you’re looking to get your culture fix, indulge in some of the region’s finest food and drink, or hop between islands, this list can help you plan your trip. Here are some unmissable events in the Caribbean in 2026 you need on your radar.
Caribbean Events in 2026:
Anguilla
Tucked away in the northern Caribbean, Anguilla is a beautiful coral and limestone island fringed by 33 world-class beaches. Celebrated by travel experts for both its natural beauty and laid-back charm, it’s a beautiful spot to visit on its own, or as part of a multi-destination adventure. Visitors can spend their days exploring the island and offshore cays, indulging in watersports and adventures, then dine their way around Anguilla’s renowned food scene before unwinding with live music or relaxed beach-bar evenings.
1. Moonsplash
5 – 8 March 2026
Moonsplash is one of the premier music festivals in the Caribbean. Established in 1991 by reggae icon Bankie Banx and his associate Sheriff Bob Saidenberg, Moonsplash stands as the Caribbean’s enduring beacon of independent musical celebration. Now in its 34th year, Moonsplash offers incredible music, while also contributing to local arts, boat racing, and educational initiatives.
Learn More: Moonsplash
2. Festival Del Mar
4 – 5 April 2026
Every Easter, Anguilla honours all things from the sea at Festival Del Mar, a lively two-day celebration that takes place in the picturesque fishing village of Island Harbour. Expect deep-sea fishing competitions, swimming races, crab races and traditional cooking and culinary competitions.
Learn More: Festival Del Mar
3. Anguilla Culinary Experience
13 – 17 May 2026
Anguilla Culinary Experience (ACE), the island’s annual destination-wide food and wine festival, is back for its fifth year in 2026. ACE brings together talented chefs from Anguilla and around the globe to share kitchens, showcase why Anguilla reigns as the Culinary Capital of the Caribbean and raise funds for culinary and hospitality educational programmes.
Learn More: Anguilla Culinary Experience
4. Anguilla Summer Festival
24 July– 9 August 2026
Anguilla’s biggest party, the Anguilla Summer Festival, (also known as “Carnival”) is a celebration packed with vibrant street parades, soca and calypso live music shows, lively beach parties, pageants that celebrate local Anguillians, boat races and beach and street pop-ups serving delicious local food and drinks. There’s a carnival event every day and night on the island, and many of the resorts and larger properties put on additional entertainment to join in the celebrations.
Learn More: Anguilla Summer Festival
Aruba
Aruba, located outside the hurricane belt, offers guaranteed sunshine year-round with average temperatures in the 27-32°C range and some of the clearest skies in the Caribbean. Its world-renowned beaches, including Eagle Beach and family-friendly Baby Beach, provide the perfect backdrop for sunbathing, sailing, snorkelling, water skiing, and beginner scuba diving. There are National Parks to explore, vineyards and a vibrant culinary scene, with something for every sort of traveller.
1. Aruba Carnival
3 January – 28 February 2026
Aruba’s Carnival is the island’s biggest celebration, offering a month-long celebration with vibrant parades, street parties, calypso music and dazzling costumes. Highlights include grand processions in San Nicolas and Oranjestad, carnival queen competitions, and the traditional Burning of King Momo to close the season. Highlights include the Aruba Lighting Parade on the 7th February and the Grand Carnival Parade in San Nicolas on the 14th Feb.
Learn More: Aruba Carnival
2. Independence Anniversary (National Anthem & Flag Day)
18 March 2026
Aruba marks its autonomy and national pride each year on National Anthem and Flag Day (18 March), celebrating the adoption of its flag and anthem and its autonomous status within the Kingdom of the Netherlands. In 1976, Betico Croes declared the first Flag and Anthem Day meaning this year’s celebration marks its 40th anniversary. This holiday is celebrated with a scout parade, a classic-car parade, sporting events, many cultural events showcasing Aruban gastronomy and games throughout the island for kids and adults.
Learn More: Independence Anniversary
3. Aruba Hi-Winds
13 – 18 May 2026
From 13th to 18th May, Aruba welcomes back one of its longest-running sporting events in the annual Aruba Hi-Winds! Aruba’s trade winds provide the perfect conditions for the largest amateur windsurfing event in the Caribbean. There are five days of non-stop entertainment, beach parties, events and activities.
Learn More: Aruba Hi-Winds
4. Aruba Art Fair
5 – 7 September 2026
Aruba Art Fair is back with a three-day event filled with a creative plate of artists, performances, innovative talks and tours, hands-on workshops, kids’ activities, live music, restaurants and bars. San Nicolas will be converted into an open-air museum where people can walk through galleries and admire stunning street murals. Visitors will also be able to take part in live interactive paintings and view hands-on art sculptures designed by the artists themselves.
Learn More: Aruba Art Fair
5. Autentico
October 2026 (Dates TBC)
Autentico brings together food lovers, award-winning chefs and local artisans for a vibrant gastronomic celebration that showcases Aruba’s diverse culinary identity. Drawing on influences from Dutch, Spanish and South American traditions, the festival highlights innovative menus and modern–traditional fusions that reflect the island’s rich cultural mix.
Learn More: Autentico
Bahamas
With 16 main islands and cays, The Bahamas offers a multi-island experience with award-winning beaches and a rich culture just waiting to be explored. Some of the best things to do on the island include world-class diving, sailing, wildlife encounters and snorkelling, as well as plenty of relaxation. Improved air connectivity in 2026 makes personalised, year-round island-hopping itineraries easier than ever, while a strong calendar of cultural, culinary and music-led events offers plenty of reasons to visit beyond peak seasons.
1. Bahamas Junkanoo Carnival
May – June 2026 (Dates TBC)
The Bahamas Junkanoo Carnival is a high-energy celebration of music, dance and Bahamian creativity. Expect colourful parades, live concerts and vibrant street parties centred in Nassau, with something for everyone to enjoy. The carnival blends traditional Junkanoo rhythms with modern influences, creating an electric atmosphere that draws locals and visitors together for days of non-stop celebration.
Learn More: Bahamas Junkanoo Carnival
2. Andros Crab Fest
June 2026 (Dates TBC)
One of the country’s best-known food festivals, The Andros Crab Fest celebrates Andros Island’s famous land crabs through lively culinary competitions, local dishes and street food stalls. Live music, cultural performances and family-friendly activities make it a brilliant way to experience authentic island life and the hospitality Bahamians are known for.
Learn More: Andros Crab Fest
3. Goombay Summer Festival
July 2026
Goombay Summer festival is a series of weekly festivals held every Thursday in July across multiple islands, showcasing Bahamian music, dance, food and handcrafted goods. These relaxed, community-led events offer visitors a chance to mingle with locals, enjoy traditional flavours and experience the islands’ cultural heritage in an informal, welcoming setting.
Learn More: Goombay Summer Festival
4. Bahamas Culinary and Arts Festival at Baha Mar
October 2026 (Dates TBC)
A food and culture-focused event bringing together internationally recognised chefs, winemakers and artists for immersive tastings, live demonstrations and creative performances. Set against the luxury backdrop of Baha Mar, the festival highlights both global talent and Bahamian flavours, making it a standout date in the Caribbean cultural calendar.
Learn More: Bahamas Culinary and Arts Festival
Belize
With a combination of stunning Caribbean coastlines, lush rainforest, ancient Maya heritage and a vibrant food culture celebrated through its festivals, Belize is a destination that needs to be on your list this year. Its pristine beaches and turquoise waters are ideal for snorkelling, sailing and diving, while dense jungles and winding rivers invite adventure seekers to explore hidden caves, waterfalls and wildlife-rich reserves. Whether you love history, nature, or a taste of authentic Belizean life, 2026 is the perfect year to experience all that this remarkable destination has to offer.
1. Belize Lobster Festival
June – July (Dates TBC)
This sizzling summer festival celebrates one of Belize’s most beloved seafood treasures. Visitors can enjoy beachside parties, live music, and an array of creative lobster dishes crafted by local chefs, all while soaking up the sun along Placencia’s pristine coastline.
Learn More: Belize Lobster Festival
2. Mango Festival in Hopkins Village
June (Exact dates tbc)
Mango is the (unofficial) fruit of Belize, so it’s no surprise there’s a whole festival dedicated to it! The Mango Festival is a celebration of Belize’s tropical bounty and Garifuna culture, offering visitors the chance to sample delicious mango treats, watch exciting contests, and enjoy vibrant music and dance performances that bring Hopkins Village to life.
Learn More: Mango Festival in Hopkins Village
3. The Belize Chocolate Festival
15 –17 May 2026
The Belize chocolate festival takes place on Commonwealth weekend every year and offers a journey in Belize’s Maya cacao heritage. With tastings, farm tours, lively music and so much more to see and do, it’s a fantastic event to tie in with your trip. You can learn more about the origins of chocolate and traditional production methods, as well as indulge in locally made sweet treats.
Learn More: The Belize Chocolate Festival
4. Garifuna Settlement Day
19 November 2026
This vibrant celebration honours the arrival of the Garifuna people in Belize with a lively display of drumming, traditional dance, and authentic cuisine. Visitors can immerse themselves in the rich Garifuna culture, enjoy colourful parades, and sample local dishes that bring the history and spirit of the community to life.
Learn More: Garifuna Settlement Day
Bermuda
Effortlessly elegant and reassuringly familiar, Bermuda is having a moment with British travellers. Named a British Airways Rising Star, the island is easy to reach, with a direct flight from London Heathrow in just seven hours. Bermuda is a year-round destination, offering pink-sand beaches, turquoise waters and refined island living in every season. Beyond the natural beauty, its deep historical ties to the UK are felt everywhere: in its architecture, its traditions, and its unmistakably British influences, from afternoon tea to cricket matches.
1. Bermuda Sail Grand Prix
9 – 10 May 2026
One of the most thrilling stops on the SailGP calendar, Bermuda hosts the world’s fastest sailing teams as they race high-speed catamarans across the crystal-clear waters of the Great Sound, a natural amphitheatre. A must for sports fans and luxury travellers alike.
Learn More: Bermuda Sail Grand Prix
2. Cup Match
30 – 31 July 2026 (Emancipation Day & Somers Day)
Bermuda’s biggest cultural celebration, Cup Match, is a two-day national holiday combining top-level cricket with music, food and festive island spirit, offering an unforgettable way to experience local life.
Learn More: Cup Match
3. Art Month
October 2026
A month-long celebration of Bermudian creativity, featuring gallery exhibitions, open studios, installations and cultural events that showcase the island’s contemporary art scene.
Learn More: Art Month
4. Butterfield Bermuda Championship
22 –25 October 2026
Part of the PGA Tour, this prestigious golf tournament attracts world-class players and global attention, set against Bermuda’s spectacular coastal course, Port Royal. Golf enthusiasts can watch the competition, as well as making the most of fan zones, hospitality experiences, and opportunities to meet players. This championship combines sport, luxury, and breathtaking scenery, making it a must-visit event for both avid golfers and visitors seeking a unique island experience.
Learn More: Butterfield Bermuda Championship
British Virgin Islands
The British Virgin Islands should be firmly on travellers’ radars for 2026, thanks to a wave of luxury resort reopenings, upgraded marinas, and a growing sailing scene that cements its status as the ‘Sailing Capital of the World™’. With warm year-round weather, calm trade winds and short island-hopping distances, it offers some of the world’s best sailing conditions, alongside white-sand beaches and crystal-clear waters perfect for diving and snorkelling. Beyond the coast, visitors can explore The Baths’ giant granite boulders, hike Sage Mountain and Gorda Peak, zipline in Tortola and discover iconic dive sites such as the RMS Rhone wreck, The Indians and the reefs around Norman Island and Anegada, all while benefiting from improved air access and a growing focus on sustainability and food culture.
1. Taste of Virgin Gorda
22nd March 2026
Taste of Virgin Gorda is a fantastic foodie celebration in the British Virgin Islands, showcasing the island’s best restaurants, chefs and local flavours. Held in a beautiful outdoor setting, the event brings together food lovers for an evening of tasting plates, drinks and Caribbean hospitality. Expect everything from fresh seafood and traditional BVI dishes to international cuisine with a tropical twist.
Learn More: Taste of Virgin Gorda
2. BVI Spring Regatta and Sailing Festival
23rd–29th March 2026
The BVI Spring Regatta and Sailing Festival is one of the Caribbean’s premier sailing events, attracting competitors and sailing fans from around the world. Taking place over a week, visitors can enjoy thrilling races, lively dockside parties and beachside celebrations. Whether you’re on the water or watching from the shore, it’s an unforgettable showcase of world-class sailing in spectacular surroundings.
Learn More: BVI Spring Regatta and Sailing Festival
3. BVI Restaurant Week
9th–23rd October 2026
BVI Restaurant Week invites locals and visitors alike to explore the diverse dining scene of the BVI. Participating restaurants offer specially curated menus and set-price dining experiences, making it the perfect opportunity to try somewhere new or revisit a favourite spot. From laid-back beachfront grills to refined fine dining, it’s a week dedicated to celebrating the flavours of the British Virgin Islands and gives visitors a chance to really immerse themselves in the incredible culinary scene of the destination.
Learn More: BVI Restaurant Week
4. Anegada Lobster Festival
27th–29th November 2026
The Anegada Lobster Festival is a much-loved annual event celebrating Anegada’s famous Spiny Lobster. Over three days, visitors can enjoy freshly caught lobster prepared in a host of creative ways, alongside live music, beach parties and a relaxed island atmosphere. It’s a deliciously indulgent way to experience Anegada’s unique charm and culinary heritage.
Learn More: Anegada Lobster Festival
Guadeloupe
Guadeloupe is a French Caribbean island that offers a refreshingly different island experience, where palm-fringed beaches meet boulangeries serving fresh pain au chocolat. The archipelago blends Caribbean warmth with French flair, combining beautiful rainforests, volcanic landscapes and sandy beaches with excellent food, European-style towns and a relaxed yet cultured pace of life. For those looking for somewhere that feels familiar yet exotic at the same time, Guadeloupe is an effortless choice.
1. Guadeloupe Islands Carnival
1 January – 18 February 2026
One of the longest and most vibrant carnivals in the Caribbean, the Guadeloupe Islands Carnival fills the early months of the year with colourful parades, elaborate costumes and pulsating drum-led music. Celebrations take place across the islands, blending African, European and Creole influences and culminating in energetic street festivities that showcase Guadeloupe’s rich cultural identity.
Learn More: Guadeloupe Islands Carnival
2. Terre de Blues Festival: The musical soul of Marie-Galante
22 May – 26 May 2026
Held on the laid-back island of Marie-Galante, Terre de Blues is a much-loved music festival celebrating blues, reggae, jazz and Caribbean sounds. Set against a stunning coastal backdrop, the festival attracts both international artists and local talent, creating a relaxed yet soulful atmosphere that reflects the island’s slower pace of life.
Learn More: Terre de Blues Festival
3. Cooks’ Festival
August 2026 (Dates TBC)
A celebration of Guadeloupe’s diverse culinary heritage, the Cooks’ Festival brings together local chefs, producers and food lovers for tastings, demonstrations and creative showcases. Visitors can sample traditional Creole dishes, discover regional ingredients and experience the islands’ food culture at its most vibrant and authentic.
Learn More: Cooks’ Festival
4. La Route du Rhum – Destination Guadeloupe
30 October – 8 November 2026
This legendary transatlantic sailing race concludes in Guadeloupe, transforming the islands into a hub of maritime excitement and celebration. The arrival of the boats is marked by events, concerts and festivities, offering visitors a front-row seat to one of the world’s most iconic offshore races alongside Guadeloupe’s lively island atmosphere.
Learn More: La Route du Rhum
Guyana
Guyana is emerging as one of the Caribbean’s fastest-growing tourism destinations, making 2026 the perfect year to visit. With record-breaking visitor numbers in 2025, new international flights, and top hotel openings, the country is more accessible than ever. In 2026, travellers can experience Guyana’s rich eco-tourism and Indigenous-led cultural adventures, alongside a year-long Diamond Jubilee celebration marking 60 years of Independence, with national events, music, and heritage activities.
1. Mashramani
23 February 2026
Known as the “Celebration after hard work,” Mashramani is Guyana’s vibrant cultural parade, showcasing the country’s spirit and creativity. Held mainly in Georgetown, the festival features lively soca and calypso music, massive floats, and colourful costumes, reflecting the diverse aspects of life in Guyana. Visitors can expect a joyous atmosphere, energetic dancing, and a true taste of Guyanese culture.
Learn More: Mashramani
2. Rupununi Ranchers’ Rodeo
3 – 5 April 2026
Set against the stunning backdrop of the Rupununi savannah, the Ranchers’ Rodeo is an exhilarating Easter weekend event. Guyanese cowboys and cowgirls demonstrate their skill, courage, and heritage through traditional ranching competitions, from cattle herding to daring rodeo challenges. It’s an unforgettable opportunity to experience the country’s rural traditions and the rugged beauty of the interior.
Learn More: Rupununi Ranchers’ Rodeo
3. Independence Day
26 May 2026
Celebrating its 60th Diamond Jubilee in 2026, Guyana’s Independence Day is marked by national pride and lively festivities. The day begins with flag-raising ceremonies and military parades, followed by cultural shows, fetes, and high-energy performances reminiscent of Mashramani, including the Road Parade, concerts, and parties. Major events such as Stinging Nettles, Touchdown, Lite Inclusive, and Jammers on the Water offer visitors an immersive experience of Guyana’s music, dance, and carnival culture.
Learn More: Independence Day
4. ORIGINS: Guyana Fashion Festival
3 – 5 July 2026
Returning for its second year, the ORIGINS Guyana Fashion Festival celebrates the country’s growing fashion industry. The event brings together designers, models, musicians, and food and beverage vendors to create a dynamic showcase of local talent. It’s a platform for innovation and creativity, offering visitors a glimpse of Guyana’s fashion-forward future.
Learn More: ORIGINS Guyana Fashion Festival
Nassau
Nassau and Paradise Island are must-visit destinations for 2026, offering the perfect combination of iconic Caribbean beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a vibrant cultural and culinary scene. Visitors can relax on powder-soft sand, stay in world-class resorts, and explore a dynamic food and entertainment landscape that keeps the destination exciting year-round. From colourful parades to gourmet festivals, there’s always something happening, making it a top choice for both adventure and relaxation.
1. Nassau Paradise Island Wine & Food Festival
11 – 15 March 2026
If you’re a food and wine enthusiast, plan your trip to the Bahamas in line with the Nassau Paradise Island Wine & Food Festival. Held at the luxurious Atlantis resort, it features celebrity chefs, premium wines, and lively beachside tastings, offering the perfect opportunity to indulge in world-class cuisine while enjoying stunning ocean views.
Learn More: Nassau Paradise Island Wine & Food Festival
2. Baha Mar Culinary and Arts Festival
Autumn 2026 (Dates TBC)
The Baha Mar Culinary and Arts Festival celebrates global cuisine and artistic expression over a truly immersive and fantastic five days. Visitors can attend interactive chef demonstrations and masterclasses, as well as watch live performances, making it a feast for all the senses. Time your visit so you can attend the Taste of Baha Mar welcome party, an all-inclusive welcome party with live-action chef stations and inventive cocktails, as well as a special live performance from rock legend Lenny Kravitz.
Learn More: Baha Mar Culinary and Arts Festival
3. Junkanoo Summer Festival
July to early August 2026
Summer in the Bahamas wouldn’t be complete without the Junkanoo Summer Festival, a colourful celebration of music, dance, and culture. This festival gives travellers a chance to experience the energy and creativity of Bahamian traditions in a lively, family-friendly atmosphere. There are incredible costumes, performances, entertainment and street food for everyone to enjoy.
Learn More: Junkanoo Summer Festival
St Kitts
St. Kitts is a Caribbean gem of lush mountains, striking beaches, and rich history. Its coastlines range from golden sands to dramatic black volcanic shores, while inland, rainforest adventures and cultural experiences await. Since the sugar industry closed in 2005, tourism has focused on authentic experiences rather than all-inclusive stays. Easily reached via direct flights from London Gatwick, the island has something for all sorts of travellers.
1. Nevis to St. Kitts Cross-Channel Swim
28 March 2026
A bucket-list event for open-water swimmers, the 2.5-mile (4.1 km) Nevis to St. Kitts Cross Channel Swim takes participants from Oualie Beach in Nevis to Cockleshell Beach in St. Kitts. 2026 marks its 25th anniversary, attracting recreational and competitive swimmers alike.
Learn More: Nevis to St. Kitts Cross-Channel Swim
2. St. Kitts Music Festival
25 – 27 June 2026
The St. Kitts Music Festival is one of the Caribbean’s premier music events, held at Warner Park Stadium. Spanning three days, the festival features genres including Soca, Jazz, R&B, Calypso, Reggae, Dancehall, Gospel, and more, with fringe events running from June 20 to 28. Past line-ups have included big names such as Jennifer Hudson and Mary J. Blige, and the 2026 programme promises another exciting celebration of live music and vibrant energy.
Learn More: St. Kitts Music Festival
3. St. Kitts & Nevis Restaurant Week
16 – 26 July 2026
Food lovers can indulge in the culinary delights of St. Kitts and Nevis during Restaurant Week. Participating restaurants create special menus featuring a single local ingredient at fixed prices, showcasing the islands’ freshest produce and most creative dishes. It’s an excellent opportunity to explore the diversity and quality of Caribbean cuisine while enjoying the island’s stunning settings.
Learn More: St. Kitts & Nevis Restaurant Week
4. Sugar Mas
December 2026 to January 2027 (Dates TBC)
Sugar Mas is St. Kitts and Nevis’ national carnival, and is a unique Caribbean celebration that combines traditional carnival excitement with Christmas festivities. Named after the island’s historic nickname, “Sugar City,” Sugar Mas offers a vibrant programme of calypso shows, fetes, J’ouvert, masqueraders, moko jumbies, live music, and parades.
Learn More: Sugar Mas
St Vincent and the Grenadines
In 2026, St. Vincent & The Grenadines (SVG) stands out as a Caribbean destination where unspoilt landscapes and vibrant culture meet authentic experiences. With 32 islands and cays, dramatic volcanic scenery, sailing-led island life, and deeply rooted traditions, SVG appeals to travellers seeking adventure, culture, and meaningful local connections. Its calendar of events spans high-energy celebrations, world-class sailing, wellness gatherings, and intimate community rituals, making it an inspiring destination all year-round.
1. SVG Sail Week
29 March – 6 April 2026
SVG Sail Week is a lively celebration of the nation’s sailing culture, combining competitive races with waterfront parties, live music, and island gatherings. Perfect for sailors, yacht charters, and spectators, the festival blends sport and socialising against the stunning backdrop of the Grenadines.
Learn More: SVG Sail Week
2. Vincy Mas
26 June – 7 July 2026
Vincy Mas is St. Vincent’s electrifying Carnival, renowned for pulsating soca, vibrant mas bands, steel pan music, and deep community participation. Known as “the hottest carnival in the Caribbean,” it delivers an authentic, high-energy experience without the commercialisation of larger destinations, giving visitors an immersive taste of local culture.
Learn More: Vincy Mas
3. Cannabliss SVG
Early October 2026 (Dates TBC)
Cannabliss SVG is a modern festival celebrating wellness, creativity, and SVG’s progressive approach to medicinal cannabis. The event draws a niche audience interested in wellness travel, cultural innovation, and holistic experiences, offering workshops, performances, and networking in a relaxed island setting.
Learn More: Cannabliss SVG
4. Nine Mornings
16 – 24 December 2026
Nine Mornings is a uniquely Vincentian pre-Christmas tradition where communities gather before dawn from the 16th to the 24th of December for music, dancing, street food, and festive rituals. Both intimate and joyful, it gives travellers rare insight into everyday island life and local holiday customs, creating a memorable cultural experience during the festive season.
Learn More: Nine Mornings
Tips for Attending Caribbean Events in 2026
Book flights and accommodation early
Caribbean events, particularly carnivals and major cultural festivals, attract visitors from all over the world. Booking early not only secures better prices but also gives you access to accommodation close to the main event locations, saving time and transport costs.
Understand local customs and dress codes
Many Caribbean events are deeply rooted in history and community traditions. While some festivals are vibrant and party-focused, others may involve religious ceremonies or cultural rituals. Take time to understand what’s appropriate to wear and if there are any customs you need to follow.
Plan transport in advance
Road closures, limited parking and high taxi demand are common during major events. Research local transport options ahead of time and consider booking private transfers or using official shuttle services where available. If you’re renting a car, be aware that driving conditions and signage can vary between islands. Uber and other car rental services might be available, but not on all of the islands, or even all areas of the islands, so make sure you research this in advance so you’re not left unable to get home.
Stay hydrated and plan for the heat
Caribbean events often involve long days outdoors, parades or street parties. Pack sun cream, wear breathable clothing and keep water with you at all times. Scheduling downtime between events will help you avoid burnout and make the most of your trip.
Combine events with island exploration
While events may be the highlight of your visit, allow time to explore beaches, food scenes and nearby islands. Many travellers plan their itinerary around one major event and then slow things down with relaxation or island hopping afterwards to make the most of the trip.
FAQs: Unmissable Caribbean Events in 2026
When is the best time of year for Caribbean events?
The busiest event season typically runs from January to August, with Carnival celebrations peaking between February and July depending on the island. Food festivals and cultural events are spread throughout the year, so there’s usually something happening regardless of when you travel.
Do I need tickets for Caribbean festivals?
Some events are free and open to the public, while others require tickets, especially concerts, food festivals and premium Carnival experiences. For popular events, tickets should be purchased in advance to avoid disappointment.
Is it safe to attend large events in the Caribbean?
Yes, major Caribbean events are generally well-organised and adequately policed. As with any large gathering, it’s important to stay aware of your surroundings, keep an eye on your valuables and follow local advice for tourists.
Can I visit multiple islands during one event trip?
Yes, island hopping is common, particularly in the Eastern Caribbean. Just be mindful of flight schedules and allow enough time between destinations, as travel days can eat into your event itinerary.
How far in advance should I plan a Caribbean event trip?
For major events, planning 6–12 months in advance is ideal. This gives you the best choice of flights, accommodation and event access, especially if you’re travelling during peak season.
Find out more about the Caribbean at caribbean.co.uk