Celebrating Caribbean Culture: CARIFESTA XV in Barbados 2025

Exploring the Vibrancy of Caribbean Culture

In 2025, the island of Barbados will become a dazzling stage for the fifteenth edition of CARIFESTA, an event that captures the essence of Caribbean culture. Attracting a large number of visitors, this grand festival, known as CARIFESTA XV, promises to be an extraordinary celebration of creativity, diversity, and unity among Caribbean nations. As the host country, Barbados will provide a vibrant canvas for artists, performers, and visitors to revel in the rich tapestry of Caribbean heritage.

The Spirit of CARIFESTA

Originating in 1972, CARIFESTA was conceived as a cultural exchange platform to promote the arts and cultures of the Caribbean. Over the years, it has grown to become a hallmark event that showcases a wide array of artistic expressions including music, dance, literature, and culinary arts. CARIFESTA XV will continue this tradition by offering visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the vibrant and diverse cultures of the Caribbean.

Highlights of CARIFESTA XV

The festival will feature a multitude of events spread across Barbados, each celebrating the unique cultural identities of participating nations. Some highlights to expect include:

• Performing Arts: Enjoy spectacular performances ranging from traditional dances to contemporary theatrical productions.
• Visual Arts: Explore exhibitions that showcase the talents of Caribbean artists through paintings, sculptures, and digital art.
• Culinary Experiences: Indulge in a culinary journey with diverse flavors that reflect the region's rich gastronomy.
• Workshops and Seminars: Participate in interactive sessions that delve into the history, traditions, and innovations of the Caribbean.

Barbados: The Perfect Host

The festival will feature a diverse program of events spanning various artistic disciplines, with many activities being free and open to the public. Highlights include:

Super Concerts: The festival will host four major concerts featuring both renowned regional icons and international artists. While specific headliners have not been fully released, artists like Shaggy and Allison Hinds are anticipated to perform.
Grand Market & Trade Hub: This will be the largest cultural market in the festival's history, covering over 45,000 sq. ft. at Waterford Place. It will feature five zones: Fashion, Home & Décor, Wellness, Literature, and Gourmet Foods. This hub is designed to be a blend of culture and commerce, providing a platform for regional micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises to connect with international buyers. It will also include a Caribbean Eat Street with 24 food booths showcasing diverse regional cuisine.
Thematic Symposia: The "Big Conversations" and a University of the West Indies (UWI) symposium will address forward-looking topics such as artificial intelligence in the arts, the green creative economy, and cultural rights.
Film Festival: The CARIFESTA Film Festival will include both indoor screenings and outdoor viewings.
Fashion Shows: Daily fashion shows will showcase Caribbean couture and design.
Visual Arts: The festival will feature a large urban mural by Ecuadorian artist Juan Sebastián Aguirre (Apitatán) and a "touch mural" project designed to engage the disabled community.
Opening Ceremony: The festivities will kick off at Freedom Park Golden Square and conclude at Queen's Park, with a fashion show parading through Broad Street