Junkanoo

Junkanoo, the National Festival of The Bahamas, is an expression of Bahamian art and culture. Large groups parade with elaborate costumes, dancing or playing goatskin drums, horns, bells, or whistles, as thousands watch and dance along.

In appreciation for their continual support to the community, the Ministry of Tourism welcomes our visitors, winter residents and cruising community.  There is Bahamian music by local entertainers, succulent native dishes, treats and lots more.  Come and bring the whole family to a delightful afternoon of tea, pastriesand Bahamian hospitality on Great Exuma.

This holiday was granted to slaves the day after Christmas, when they were given the boxes left over from their master’s gifts. These boxes usually were sent from England and were well-crafted from fine wood. Hence the holiday is known as Boxing Day.

Junkanoo parades take place on some islands to commemorate the day.

It will include an address by Community Leaders, Christmas Caroling, skits, poems, Santa gift delivery, Junkanoo, live band music, a Disc Jockey, food and drinks.

This event celebrates the opening of the national Lobster Season and includes a hunt for the invasive Lion Fish. On day one, prizes will be awarded for the largest lobster and most lion fish caught: start time 9:00 a.m. / end time 4:00 p.m. In the evening, there will be a variety of lobster entrees, lots of beverages, art, souvenirs, games, and dancing to Bahamian music: start time 6:00 p.m. / end time 11:00 p.m.

This signature event celebrates everything indigenous to The Berry Islands: Culture, People, Food, Drinks, etc. Residents and visitors participate in cultural heritage activities throughout the islands—Junkanoo, exciting Bahamian dance, music, a gospel concert, games, artistic exhibitions, souvenirs, food and drink, and a Kamalami Boat Race.

This two-day event will feature a variety of dishes made from conch, a conch cracking competition, dance competition, Junkanoo, games, Kamalami boat race, and beach activities.

This event will feature culinary competitions using conch; a variety of food made from conch; conch dance competitions; a presentation on conch conservation, plus Junkanoo, music, dancing and Bahamian games.

This fair celebrates the annual 'coming back to the island' of friends and family. It is one of the largest events on The Berry Islands' calendar. The fun-filled day starts at sunrise with a White Elephant Sale; quality items will be available at inexpensive prices. There will be lots and lots of food, drinks, games and fun, plus a Marching Band and Junkanoo performances. The highlight of the event is the Grand Raffle, where you can snag a really good prize.