Culture

Regatta

A Brief History of Regatta

By the early 1950's, working sail was fast disappearing from this part of the world, The Grand Banks fishing schooner was all but gone, the Chesapeake oyster dredgers were no longer being replaced as they were laid tip, and the many vessels, still working under canvas in the Bahamas, had an uncertain future.  In 1954 a small group of Bahamian and American yachtsmen conceived the idea of holding a regatta for the Bahamian working sailing craft. <<more>>

Native Dishes

 To view a listing of Bahamian Cuinary delites click here.

Festivals

All year round Bahamians and visitors alike can enjoy the many festivals that occur on our islands.  To see a listing of these festivals click here.

 

Junkanoo.

 

What is Junkanoo?

Junkanoo, a Bahamian national festival, is a kaleidoscope of colours and sound.  The rhythmic sounds of cowbells, goat skin drums and whistles, accompanied by an array of brass instruments, create a sweet musical beat that will move you; while brilliantly coloured costumes capture your eye, and bring much visual delight.  This bi-annual cultural highlight takes place on Bay Street in New Providence and other Family Islands during the early morning hours, from 1:00a.m. - 9:00a.m. on Boxing Day (the day after Christmas) and New Year’s Morning.  Junkanoo can also be experienced on many celebrated occasions such as independence Day (July 10th).  There is also a Junior Junkanoo Parade in December, held in New Providence. <<more>>

Changing of the Guard Ceremony

This year-round event is an impressive demonstration of the country’s military at the historic Government House on East Hill Street in the city of Nassau.  The Ceremony features precision drills to the sounds of the world-renowned Royal Bahamas Police Force Marching Band and Royal Bahamas Defense Force Guards.  This event is held in the honor of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.  It is has become a must see attraction for tourists and Bahamians alike. <<more>>

Music

Main article: Rake and Scrape music

 

Rake and scrape music comes from the musical traditions of the Turks and Caicos Islands (TCI), and is characterized by the use of the saw tool, as the primary instrument.  It was brought by TCI immigrants to the Bahama islands between the 1920s and 1940s starting in Cat Island and then spreading to others. <<more>>

 

Home Coming

 

 Homecoming is one of the many festivals celebrated on most of the inhabited islands in The Bahamas. It is the tradition of persons born in the islands, or who have island roots, returning for a reunion with family and friends that still reside there.  People come from the main land of New Providence (the capital), and in some cases the United States, to join in the festivities. Most popular of getting to the islands for homecoming is by the mail boat, locals call this an “excursion”.  <<more>>

 

People to People Programme - Visitor Registration 

The People to People Programme is designed to match visitors with People-To-People Ambassadors according to their occupation, interests, religious beliefs, age, hobbies etc.  These ambassadors are certified by The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism and they give visitors a better understanding of our culture and country. <<more>>

 

People to People Programme - Ambassador Volunteer Registration

 

The People to People Programme is designed to match visitors with People-To-People Ambassadors according to their occupation, interests, religious beliefs, age, hobbies etc.  Any Bahamian national can apply to become an Ambassador for this programme. These volunteers are certified by The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism and they give visitors a better understanding of our culture and country.   <<more>>

Notices
Useful Links
© 2011 The Official Website of the Government of The Bahamas.
All rights reserved.