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An exciting display of the living culture of the Bajan people, the festivals and events of Barbados are comprised of an intoxicating blend of many African, British, American and Ameridian ingredients. The sundry spectacle of color and rhythm and sport that transfuse the island with celebration and joy is an experience that few would care to miss and none will soon forget.


Barbados Jazz Festival –January 11-17
Bringing some of the best local, national and international jazz performers to the stage, this annual event is popular with jazz aficionados and attracts music fans from all over the world. Concerts take place at various venues across the island.

Waterman Festival – February 6-7
The Waterman Festival lasts for three weekends and celebrates surfing, windsurfing and kite surfing with an exciting series of competitive events. Activities take place all over the island with most events composed of invited professionals, but amateurs and touring professionals also have the opportunity to participate. Hot social events are the surfer buffet and the sunset "deAction Beach Party" at Brian Talma's ‘Irie Man Action Shop’ in Silver Rock.

Holetown Festival – February 14-21
The week-long celebrations of the Holetown Festival kick-off with a bang at the Holetown Monument in the centre of the town. The event marks the arrival of the first settlers at the site now known as Holetown on February 17, 1627. The festival provides visitors with an introduction to Barbadian culture and traditions through a varied program that includes concerts, live music, street parades, beauty pageants, craft fairs, historical exhibitions, sporting competitions and food and drink events.

Oistins Fish Festival – April 3-5
Held in the scenic fishing town of Oistins Barbados’ south coast, the annual Oistins Fish Festival is a day of celebrations for those that work in the local fishing industry. Visitors can expect live calypso and reggae music, craft fairs, family games and stalls selling delicious seafood dishes. Popular events and attractions include the fish boning tournament, boat races and the fun grease-pole competition.

Sir Garfield Sobers Festival of Golf – April 23-25
One of the biggest and best-loved golfing events on the island, the annual Sir Garfield Sobers Festival of Golf is a four-day tournament. Lured by the fine courses, hospitality and prospect of great weather, the festival attracts players from all over the world. Golfers compete in teams of four and there is also a ladies' competition. The festival is hosted by Sir Garfield Sobers, the legendary Barbadian cricketer.

Barbados International Masters Football Festival – May 20-24
Attracting teams from across the Caribbean, America and Europe, the Barbados International Masters Football Festival bring a close to the island’s domestic season. Played over the Whitsuntide weekend, the soccer tournament attracts a lot of senior players who still have the energy, passion and enthusiasm for the game. In addition to the soccer, attractions, live entertainment and a legendary beer tent draw crowds.

Crop Over Festival – July 3 – August 2
Crop Over is Barbados' biggest, loudest and best-loved festival which sees the whole island taken over by the party spirit. Dating back to the 1780s when the island was one of the biggest sugar producers in the world, the end of the sugar cane harvest was always celebrated with a big party, and the tradition continues today with added extravagance and flamboyance. The festival culminates with the ceremonial delivery of the last sugar canes of the harvest and the crowning of the carnival king and queen. Events continue for the next five weeks and revelers can expect a heavy mix of live music, dancing, carnivals, markets, cultural presentations and more. Kadooment Day – August 3: This celebratory day marks the end of Crop Over in Barbados with a festival and parade, complete with bright costumes, music and plenty of rum.

National Independence Festival of the Creative Arts – October 2010
NIFCA showcases the artistic talents of Barbadians and encourages Barbadians of all ages to showcase their talents in the fields of music, singing, dance, drama, writing, fine art, photography, arts and crafts. The festival runs throughout November and concludes with a gala presentation.

Sun, Sea & Slams International Bridge Festival – October 19-23
Bridge fans from all over the world come each year to this fun, yet competitive, festival. The festival features events for pairs and teams, as well as championship matches and concludes with an awards dinner.

Barbados International Film Festival – December 1-5
This annual festival brings together the best of world cinema and international film culture and provides a major showcase for the exhibition of the Caribbean, Latin America and world-wide independent film.

Fireball Worlds Fireball Championship Regatta – April 24 - May 7
The regatta is open to boats of the International Fireball Class whose helmsman and crew are members of a National Fireball Class Association.

Gospelfest – May 22-30
Featuring top local, regional and international gospel talent, the annual Barbados Gospelfest is one of the most popular Christian music festivals in the Caribbean. The event was first held in 1993 and covers different styles ranging from traditional gospel choir music to a modern gospel DJ set.

Barbados Reggae Festival – April 18-25
The Barbados Reggae Festival will be held at Farley Hill National park and will feature three events including: Reggae on the Hill, Reggae Beach Party and Vintage Reggae Show & Dance.

The Sentebal Polo Cup – January 31
Prince Harry and Prince Seeiso of Lesotho will be launching the Sentebale Polo Cup in Barbados.

ICC Cricket Worlds Twenty20 Tournament – May 4-15
The Cricket Trouneyment kicks off on May 4th with matches leading up to the finals on May 16th. Visit us online www.eticketing.co.uk/iccwt20/default.aspx

Holders Season – March 6-27
Barbados’ exciting season of opera, classical, jazz, Latin and Caribbean music which takes place in the open air gardens of historic Holders Plantation House, owned by Wendy Kidd. The 2010 line up includes professionals from across the globe comprising a world-class program of artists.