Celebration time
The skills of the world’s most exciting T20 batsmen and bowlers are on display on cricket grounds across the region during Caribbean Premier League (CPL) tournament (August 29-October 6) – “the biggest party in sports”.
For a change of pace, Campechada (August 31-September 1) — inspired by renowned playwright Victoria Espinosa and organized by the Puerto Rican Cultural Institute in Santurce, Puerto Rico — honors indigenous theater, painting, music, dance and literature.
Indigenous communities around the world model a sustainable life in harmony with nature. And throughout September, in Guyana Native American/Indigenous Heritage Month offers invaluable opportunities to learn more about indigenous history and traditions in the “land of many waters”.
It is one of the last opportunities to enjoy the Bachanal Carnival on the North American continent West Indies Day Parade (September 2) kicks off with J’ouvert and culminates with up to three million people using the streets of Brooklyn, New York as their dance floor – and runway! If the carnival fever is still on, don’t miss it Carnival in Miami the following month (October 11-13).
Still up north, literature lovers won’t want to miss out on their favorite authors Brooklyn Caribbean Literary Festival (September 5-8) and Brooklyn Book Festival (September 22–30).
of Nevis Marathon and Running Festival (Sept. 7) features four distances — 5K, 10K, half marathon and full marathon — to challenge you and your family, offering panoramic views and other special prizes.
From the roads to the sea…! In Saint Lucia Dive Fest (September 15–21), it’s all about celebrating and preserving the island’s natural world—from invasive lionfish hunts (with a lionfish cookout!), to land and water cleanups and an underwater photography contest. And if you see people wearing madrasahs (the traditional dress of St. Lucia), it’s because it’s October Creole Heritage Month!
In Dominica, learn about their living indigenous heritage throughout Language week (September 19–26); while Jamaican dancehall artist Valiant, Trinidadian Soca powerhouse Nadia Batson, Guadeloupean band Kassav and other beloved Caribbean acts take center stage at World Creole Music Festival (October 25-27).
In the backdrop of the CPL semis and finals, Guyana Cricket Carnival (September 19-October 6) features a series of exciting events, from dynamic concerts to delicious food and massages!
Tobago’s iconic Signal Hill Alumni Choir celebrates their 40th anniversary with 2064: A Musical Odysseyfeaturing an exhibition, school outreach and dynamic performances across Trinidad & Tobago (September 21-October 6).
In Toronto, CaribbeanTales International Film Festival (September 5–15) and Grenada 1261 Film Festival (October 24–27) promise unforgettable Caribbean films to inspire, entertain, provoke critical thought – and foster support for our talented filmmakers.
Meanwhile, it’s a sensational celebration of diversity, equality, weirdness, and weird allyship in the The pride of Curacao (September 27-October 6).
Up in Antigua, Nelson’s historic Dockyard looms large Francis Nunes Jr. Memorial Fishing Tournament and Seafood Festival (September 27–28). Enjoy freshly caught fish from the return boats and an array of delicious seafood dishes, along with infectious live music and entertainment.
There is non-stop action in Tobago this October, from Tobago International Cycling Classic (October 1–6), at Tobago Blue Food Festival (October 20) and Tobago Carnival (October 25-27).
of Suriname Maroon Heritage Day (October 10) commemorates the Maroon victory over the Dutch in 1760. With a distinct cultural identity, around 20% of Suriname’s population is Maroon. Their food and rich traditions are central to heritage celebrations.
of COCO Dance Festival (October 12–13) in Trinidad brings together some of the region’s most innovative and respected dancers and choreographers. This year, the world-renowned Garth Fagan Dance – founded and directed by Fagan, Jamaican choreographer i the lion king, among other products — is online. Then, continue the dance love Dance Grenada (October 17–21), featuring performances, workshops, panel discussions and more.
Work up an appetite Barbados National Triathlon Championships (October 20), before indulging in Barbados Food and Rum Festival (October 24–27) and The Rum Experience in Barbados (October 28-November 2). Patrons are sure to leave the island in high spirits!
In Trinidad and Tobago, Caribbean Spirit Festival (October 30–November 2) brings together top talent from Dreamworks, Pixar, Cartoon Network, Nickelodeon and more together with established and emerging Caribbean animators for screenings, networking, training and workshops.
As the sun sets in the month of October, Hindus and non-Hindus alike observe DiwaliHindu Lunar Festival of Lights. Special Indian delicacies are distributed around Guyana, Trinidad & Tobago, Suriname and Jamaica, while revelers are dazzled by traditional Indian clothing and henna designs, and cultural programs entertain and enlighten. Deyas (small lamps) symbolizing the triumph of good over evil and rangoli (colored rice) designs representing happiness and positivity are placed around homes and community spaces.
