Date

Event

Marks the 1816 slave uprising led by Bussa, a national hero symbolizing the fight against oppression.

Honors Barbados' ten National Heroes who have made significant contributions to the nation's development.

Celebrates workers' rights and the contributions of the labor movement.

The Organisation of African Unity in 1963, now the African Union, was founded on May 25th 1963. We now honour that day by celebrating the rich African heritage that shapes Barbados' cultural identity.

We celebrate Africa’s influence on our past, present, and future with a range of educational and cultural activities, including storytelling, music, dance, and more, designed to educate and inspire. We invite you to be part of this vibrant celebration!

The month of June is an opportunity to connect with our island’s legacy, experience the beauty of our traditions, and contribute to the preservation of our unique identity.
We honor and preserve the rich cultural traditions that have shaped our island through exhibitions and tours, to educational programs and mini-series. These thirty days are packed with exciting events designed to highlight Barbados' vibrant history and diverse cultural influences.

These are usually held by the Barbados Museum & Historical Society and other cultural organizations. Their aim is to engage the public in exploring and appreciating the island's history, and reestablishing their commitment to passing down cultural knowledge for future generations.

Additionally, the Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc. (BTMI) has produced mini-series and other media content to celebrate and preserve the nation's heritage, further promoting awareness and appreciation among a broader audience.

Remembers the 1937 labor rebellion, a pivotal event in the fight for workers' rights and social justice.

Commemorates the abolition of slavery in the British Empire in 1834, a day of reflection and celebration of freedom.

Honors the birthday of Marcus Garvey, a proponent of Black nationalism and Pan-Africanism.

On August 23rd, we pause to reflect on a pivotal moment in history—the 1791 uprising in Saint Domingue, which played a crucial role in the abolition of the transatlantic slave trade. In Barbados, this day holds deep significance as we remember the enduring impact of slavery on our island and honor the resilience and resistance of enslaved Africans.

This solemn occasion encourages reflection, dialogue, and learning about the legacy of slavery. It reminds us of the importance of acknowledging our past to heal and promote reconciliation. Activities throughout the day include educational programs, cultural events, and ceremonies, many of which are led by institutions like the Barbados Museum & Historical Society.

Join us on August 27th for a day of music, culture, and history as we honor the unforgettable legacy of Jackie Opel, the pioneer of Spouge music. Born in Bridgetown on this day in 1938, Opel’s groundbreaking fusion of ska, calypso, and regional rhythms created a genre that still resonates deeply with Barbadians and the wider Caribbean.

The day will feature cultural ceremonies, musical performances, and discussions that pay tribute to this icon and educate younger generations about his influence. This year marks the launch of the Jackie Opel Artist Residency Programme, a year-long initiative dedicated to reinterpreting and expanding Opel’s legacy.

Join us in Barbados from August 22-31, 2025, for CARIFESTA XV, the Caribbean's premier arts festival! Under the theme "Caribbean Roots…Global Excellence," this vibrant event will highlight the region’s rich cultural heritage while addressing global issues like sustainability, resilience, and peace.

The festival promises an unforgettable experience, with an expansive Grand Market, youth initiatives, eco-friendly practices, and a dedicated innovation hub showcasing the Caribbean’s role in sustainable development. New venues such as the Marcus Garvey Amphitheatre and Newton R.O.A.D. Facility will host performances, workshops, and discussions that focus on the future of cultural festivals.

Attendees can look forward to captivating events like Sustainability by the Sea, grand ceremonies, concerts, and fashion and culinary showcases. CARIFESTA 2025 will position the Caribbean as a global leader in cultural diplomacy and innovation, inspiring audiences around the world.