Essential information about what’s happening across the region in March and April!
Don’t miss out
You can hear great music almost anywhere, but the unique setting and people around you make all the difference between just hearing it and experiencing something that becomes an epic memory for years to come. The Tobago Jazz Experience (20–23 April) combines jazz and other musical styles with the rhythm of Tobago, offering a unique encounter with the island’s cultural heritage, culinary styles and talent. Enchanting performances from international headliners such as the iconic Grace Jones, phenomenal jazz trumpeter Etienne Charles, contemporary jazz saxophonist Elan Trotman and more have created Tobago Jazz devotees in the past – and this year promises to be no different.
A dedicated race village and lively shore activities are on offer at St. Martin’s Regatta (March 2–5), with intense wind-to-lead racing interspersed with short, tactical coastal races. Experience even more action later in the season at Antigua Sailing Week (April 28-May 5).
Some of the greatest drummers, percussionists and other musicians have performed at drum party (March 2–5) in Havana. During this “drum party” (as it is translated in English), numerous venues around the Cuban capital host performances, master classes and competitions.
it’s turtle watching season! Between March and September, places around the Caribbean become nesting grounds for these beautiful, endangered creatures. Guided tours or permits may be required at some destinations for this unforgettable experience. You can learn more on our website at caribbean-beat.com.
Amidst the pomp, pageantry and hype, great local, regional and international riders compete for the prestigious Sandy Lane Gold Cup (March 4) at the historic Garrison Savannah of Barbados. The lively atmosphere intensifies the following month as music lovers flock to Barbados Reggae Festival (April 27-May 1).
It is a festival of colors and flavors in Carnaval Miami (March 4-April 8). Carnaval on the Mile, Calle Ocho Music Festival and various art, music and sports events attract almost a million people each year. Back in the Caribbean, the fun continues on Jamaica Carnival (April 12-18) and Carnival of Saint Martin (April 14-May 3).
The first day of spring brings lively singing, dancing, tassa drumming and covering each other in abeer si Fagwah OR Holi (March 7 or 8, depending on destination) observed in Guyana, Suriname and Trinidad & Tobago. This Hindu festival welcomes those of all backgrounds as it celebrates the eternal love of Radha Krishna and the Hindu New Year.
Electronic music captivates revelers from sunrise to sunset SXM Festival (March 8–12) in idyllic St Maarten.
Then from historical walks to masquerades in frocks, St. Patrick’s Day celebrations (March 12-19) take center stage each year in Montserrat – the only place outside Ireland to celebrate it as a national holiday.
Island Jazz is back! of Trinidad Jazz artists on the Green serenades the audience on March 25, with that of Dominica Jazz’n Creole Festival following on April 30. You can read more about the return of Caribbean jazz festivals on pages 26 to 28.
On your mark…! Prepare for samples (March 28 – April 1) — The high school track and field meet where track and field stars such as Shelly-Ann Fraser-Price, Usain Bolt and many of Jamaica’s top athletes first rose to prominence. Cheers also erupt across CARICOM as future Olympians and world-class athletes are tested in the 50 CARIFTA games (April 7–10) in the Bahamas.
Dancing kites, hot cross buns, fish, bun and cheese festivals and goat and crab races signal Easter time around the Caribbean. Take in Bartica Easter Regatta OR I’m breaking Rodeo if you are in Guyana on the Easter weekend (April 7–10).
Finally, Trinidad & Tobago’s Bocas Lit Fest (April 28–30) returns with a hybrid in-person and virtual format that celebrates words, stories, and ideas, with events for everyone—from budding writers to avid readers to schoolchildren.
