5 Must-See Festivals in the Caribbean

Any visit to the British Virgin Islands is an occasion to celebrate. Whether you're embracing a beloved holiday like Thanksgiving, trying something new like a Full Moon Party, or simply reveling in the joy of life, the BVI offers delicious food, exciting activities, and vibrant festivities. All you need to do is arrive.

Transform Your Thanksgiving at the Anegada Lobster Festival

Forget the traditional turkey and stuffing. Thanksgiving is about celebrating the Anegada Lobster Festival on this northernmost island of the British Virgin Islands. Anegada, the only coral island in the archipelago, is located 15 miles from Virgin Gorda and features the 18-mile-long Horseshoe Reef (the fourth largest in the world) along with 16 miles of stunning white-sand beaches. This year marks the festival's 12th edition, and if past events are any indication, numerous venues on the aptly named “Drowned Island” (rising just 28 feet above sea level) will showcase creative dishes, from fried lobster with mango dip to lobster pizza and patties. Don your swimsuit…and your bib!

Dance the night away at full moon parties from Tortola to Virgin Gorda.

Some beings howl at the full moon; others flock to the BVI to revel in this monthly lunar celebration. What began in 1989 at the iconic Bomba Shack in Tortola’s Carpoons Bay has blossomed into a beloved tradition across the islands, becoming a hallmark of local nightlife. Back then, both locals and visitors indulged in Bomba’s legendary tea. Today, venues from Virgin Gorda to Beef Island host their own late-night festivities, where partygoers kick off their shoes, hit the sand, and dance under the moonlight. Full Moon parties remain transformative, continuing the ecstatic spirit of the original gatherings.

Join the festivities at the Emancipation Festival and Virgin Gorda’s Christmas in July celebration.

Each July, thousands of jubilant visitors and countless boats flock to Virgin Gorda for Xmas in July, a vibrant, daylong celebration brimming with music and beachside fun. Established in 2007, this annual event emerged from the camaraderie between Puerto Rico and the British Virgin Islands. In the aftermath of Hurricane Irma, many Puerto Ricans (affectionately dubbed the “Puerto Rican Navy”) came to the aid of their friends across the water, delivering supplies and helping evacuate those in need. Celebrating local communities is one of the most impactful ways travel can foster goodwill, especially with beach volleyball, reggae music, and refreshing mango margaritas.

Annually, the BVI commemorates the anniversary of the August 1, 1834, proclamation that abolished slavery throughout the British Empire. The first Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday of the month are designated holidays across the islands, allowing both locals and visitors to honor this significant occasion during the Emancipation Festival. Expect pageants, festivities like the torchlight procession, and food fairs throughout the islands. Pro tip: Wake up early to experience the legendary “rise and shine tramps”, where bands perform from the backs of trucks in the early hours of the morning.

Welcome the New Year on Jost Van Dyke.

Every vacation spot worldwide has its own New Year’s Eve celebration, but few can match the blend of festive excitement and Caribbean spirit found on Jost van Dyke. As the smallest of the main British Virgin Islands, Jost transforms from a tranquil retreat to the ultimate party destination as the sun sets on December 31.

Upon arrival on the island, savvy travelers flock to Foxy’s Tamarind Bar for an unforgettable Old Year’s Night Party featuring live music and stunning Caribbean views. Be sure to catch owner Foxy Callwood as he leads the festive “Old Year’s Walk” along the beach, a unique way to usher in the new year and embrace fresh opportunities in the British Virgin Islands.

Looking to make the most of a long weekend? Rent a yacht and navigate the crystalline waters of the 50-plus British Virgin Islands year-round. Beyond the main islands of Tortola, Anegada, Virgin Gorda, and Jost Van Dyke, don’t overlook the uninhabited gems like Great Tobago, Salt Island, and other lesser-known spots.

Beginner sailors will enjoy the consistent trade winds, sheltered bays, and plenty of mooring options. For those who prefer not to captain their own vessel, captained rentals are readily available. Whether steering or relaxing, you can visit the iconic Virgin Gorda baths, snorkel and dive around the secluded Sandy Cay, or simply bask on the idyllic beaches of Anegada. One thing’s certain: there are no wrong choices, and every itinerary is a good one.