Bucket list travel: 10 Events upcoming in January, February & March 2025 you should attend
The Caribbean is world-renowned for its dynamic culture, vibrant festivals, and idyllic settings. From the conscious rhythms of reggae to the energetic parades of carnival, here are some of the must-attend events across the region in early 2025.
Cayman Cookout – Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands
Where: Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands
Date: January 15-20, 2025
Culinary enthusiasts will not want to miss the Cayman Cookout, a four-day food and wine festival hosted by The Ritz-Carlton in Grand Cayman. Celebrating its 16th year, the event will feature celebrity chefs, cooking demonstrations, and gourmet beachside BBQs.
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Rebel Salute – Jamaica
Where: Ocho Rios, Jamaica
Date: January 17-18, 2025
Rebel Salute started as a tribute to reggae legend Tony Rebel and has since evolved into a significant roots and conscious music festival. What sets it apart is its commitment to offering an alcohol-free, drug-free experience, paired with a strict vegetarian menu. Located in the scenic town of Ocho Rios, this is a soulful and refreshing alternative to the typical festival atmosphere.
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Zemi Festival – St. Lucia
Where: St. Lucia
Date: January (Exact date TBA)
Zemi Festival in St. Lucia is a haven for electronic music lovers, focusing on deep house and curated by the ZEMI DJs. The festival features hypnotic beats and soulful melodies that keep the crowd dancing late into the night. Surrounded by St. Lucia’s natural beauty, this event offers a unique musical escape.
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Carriacou Carnival – Carriacou, Grenada
Where: Carriacou
Date: February 3-4, 2025
The Carriacou Carnival is a two-day celebration filled with soca music, steel bands, and lively parades. A smaller but vibrant festival, this carnival offers a more intimate yet equally exuberant carnival experience.
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Dominican Republic Carnival – La Vega & Santiago
Where: La Vega and Santiago, Dominican Republic
Date: February 12, 2025
Dominican Republic Carnival is one of the oldest and most colorful celebrations in the region. The iconic event features bright costumes, street parades, and traditional Dominican music. This vibrant celebration brings together the country’s rich cultural history.
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Trinidad and Tobago Carnival
Where: Port-of-Spain, Trinidad and Tobago
Date: March 3-4, 2025
Known as one of the grandest carnival celebrations in the world, Trinidad Carnival is an explosion of color, music, and celebration. From intricate costumes to the pulsating beats of Soca, it’s an unforgettable experience. Highlights include the Road March and Calypso Monarch competitions.
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Virgin Islands Jam Fest – St. John, U.S. Virgin Islands
Where: St. John, U.S. Virgin Islands
Date: March 6-8, 2025
The VI Jam Fest offers an intimate experience with around 250 attendees. It’s a grassroots festival on a breathtaking island setting. This low-key event provides the perfect mix of beautiful surroundings, good music, and a laid-back atmosphere.
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SXM Festival – St. Martin
Where: Saint Martin
Date: March 12-16, 2025
SXM Festival is a mecca for electronic music lovers, offering an eco-conscious rave experience in paradise. The stunning backdrop of St. Martin’s beaches and villas, combined with world-class house and techno artists, makes this an unparalleled island party.
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Nassau Paradise Island Wine & Food Festival – Bahamas
Where: Atlantis Paradise Island, Bahamas
Date: March 12-16, 2025
Nassau’s Wine & Food Festival is the largest culinary event in Bahamian history, showcasing some of the world’s most renowned chefs and wine producers. Attendees can enjoy tastings, gourmet meals, and wine pairings in the luxurious Atlantis setting.
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Capella Music Festival – Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands
Where: Grand Cayman
Date: March 29, 2025
Capella Music Festival offers an eclectic blend of music from local Caymanian artists and international legends. The festival promises a diverse range of genres and a day-long celebration of music set against the backdrop of the island’s stunning beaches.
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Conclusion
Whether you're a fan of soulful reggae, culinary indulgence, or the energetic vibes of carnival, the Caribbean's festival season in early 2025 offers something for everyone. These events provide a unique mix of culture, music, and stunning destinations that make the Caribbean one of the best places to visit in the new year. Get ready to immerse yourself in these vibrant experiences!
The 16th annual Cayman Cookout at The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman. Every year, over Martin Luther King, Jr.'s weekend, Chef Eric Ripert is joined by friends as the Cayman Islands transforms into the Caribbean’s culinary capital for a weekend of friendship and fun.