Seasonal Events

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GUIDES

Watching the Family Island Regatta Like a Local

The first time I watched the 69th National Family Island Regatta from the harbour wall in George Town, I understood why people fly in from all over the Bahamas for this week. Elizabeth Harbour, normally a quiet stretch of water, was packed with hundreds of boats, and the air carried the sound of reggae from a stage set up in the park. Thousands of people had arrived for the national championship of Bahamian sailing — a five-day event where traditional wooden sloops with towering masts race for the Prime Minister’s Cup. This article covers how to watch the regatta

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A Beginner’s Guide to Lobster Diving Season in the Out Islands

A pod of dolphins cruised past our skiff as we anchored off a small cay in the Abacos. Michael was already in the water, mask down, scanning the sandy patches between coral heads for the telltale antennae of a spiny lobster. The Bahamas spiny lobster open season runs from August 1 to March 31 each year, and we had timed it right. This guide covers everything a beginner needs to know about lobster diving in the Out Islands — permits, gear, techniques, locations, and the rules that keep it sustainable. Spiny lobster season in the Bahamas runs August 1

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Why Spearfishing Season Draws Divers to Spanish Wells

Each summer, as the water warms around the northern tip of Eleuthera, a distinct crowd starts booking flights to North Eleuthera Airport. They’re not coming for the resort pools or the pink-sand beaches. They’re coming for the start of lobster season on August 1, when Spanish Wells — a tiny settlement on an island just off Eleuthera’s north coast — earns its nickname as the “Lobster Capital” of the Bahamas. The town’s working waterfront, where lobster traps stack high on docks and the smell of salt and diesel mixes in the morning air, signals that this is a place

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Explore Nassau for the Junkanoo Festival

Nassau’s Bay Street transforms just after midnight on December 26, and again on January 1, into a corridor of feathers, cowbells, and goatskin drums that can be heard blocks away. The Junkanoo Festival, inscribed on UNESCO’s Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2023, draws crowds who line the half-mile route from the British Colonial Hotel to Rawson Square to watch groups like Valley Boys and Saxons compete in costume, choreography, and music. This guide covers the two main parades, how to watch them without losing your spot, and what else to do in Nassau around the holiday season

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Experience Rolleville Homecoming Festival & Regatta in Exuma

Rolleville is a quiet settlement on the eastern coast of Great Exuma most of the year, but for four days in August it becomes the island’s cultural epicenter. The Rolleville Homecoming Festival & Regatta, running 1–4 August 2025, brings together Bahamians from across the archipelago and travelers who want to experience Exuma beyond the sandbars and swim-with-pigs tours. Homecoming season across the Family Islands is a tradition that dates back generations — a chance for islanders who’ve moved to Nassau or abroad to return home, reconnect, and celebrate. The Rolleville edition centers on native sloop races, cultural games, music,

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Experience the Nassau Paradise Island Wine & Food Festival.

The vibrant energy of the Bahamas truly comes alive at the Nassau Paradise Island Wine & Food Festival, a multi-day celebration held annually at the iconic Atlantis Paradise Island. This event transforms the resort into a culinary and entertainment hub, showcasing a dynamic blend of international and local flavors. It’s a fantastic opportunity to experience the island’s growing reputation as a destination for food lovers and music enthusiasts alike. Culinary Stars and Local Flavors You’ll find an impressive lineup of world-renowned chefs gracing the festival stages and kitchens. It’s quite something to see such celebrated culinary talent converge in

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Explore Grand Bahama’s Junkanoo Summer Festival

Grand Bahama Island’s Junkanoo Summer Festival promises an explosion of Bahamian culture, a vibrant celebration that brings the spirit of the iconic Junkanoo parades to life during the warmer months. This annual event, hosted by the Ministry of Tourism and Aviation, is a fantastic opportunity for both visitors and locals to immerse themselves in the island’s rich heritage. Discovering Junkanoo Culture The heart of the Junkanoo Summer Festival beats with the rhythm of Bahamian culture. It’s designed to give everyone a real taste of what makes this country so unique. As I’ve explored many different islands, I’ve learned that

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Bahamian Regatta Races: Witness the Thrill of Sailing in the Bahamas

Bahamian regattas are more than just boat races; they’re vibrant celebrations of Bahamian culture, history, and community. Held annually across various islands, these events showcase the unique craftsmanship of Bahamian sloops, the skill of local sailors, and the infectious spirit of the islands. Attending a regatta offers a unique glimpse into the heart and soul of the Bahamas, far beyond the typical tourist experience. Understanding the Bahamian Regatta Heritage The history of Bahamian regattas is deeply intertwined with the working history of these islands. Before paved roads and reliable transport, islanders depended on locally built sailing sloops for inter-island

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Experience Junkanoo: A Guide to Bahamas’ Vibrant Cultural Celebration

Junkanoo is the heart and soul of the Bahamas, a vibrant street parade exploding with colour, music, and uninhibited joy. It’s so much more than just a festival; it’s a powerful expression of Bahamian history, culture, and community. If you’re planning a trip to the Bahamas, experiencing Junkanoo is an absolute must. This guide will give you a deep dive into everything you need to know, from the best places to watch to how to participate respectfully. What is Junkanoo? Unveiling the History and Significance To truly appreciate Junkanoo, you need to understand its origins. While the exact roots

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Junkanoo Rush: Experience the Thrill & Rhythms of Bahamas’ Iconic Festival

Junkanoo Rush is the heart and soul of the Bahamas’ cultural identity, a vibrant street parade overflowing with music, dance, and dazzling costumes. More than just a spectacle, it’s a visceral experience that immerses you in the Bahamian spirit. This article provides an in-depth guide to experiencing the thrill and rhythms of Junkanoo, ensuring you have an unforgettable adventure. Understanding Junkanoo: More Than Just a Parade Junkanoo is deeply rooted in the history of the Bahamas. While the exact origins are debated, it’s widely believed to have started during the 16th and 17th centuries, when enslaved Africans were given

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