The Best Time to Visit Barbados

When is the Best Time to Visit Barbados?

The best time to visit Barbados is from May to June and in November. These months avoid the wet season and hurricanes, and the days are warm and relatively dry. These months also avoid the peak holidays in the US and UK, so deals can be found for hotels, air travel, and local amenities.

• Prime Period for Clemency Weather: December-April.
• Best Time for Exploring Attractions: December-June.
• Prime Time for Honeymoon Voyages: May-June, November.
• Best Time for Economical Stays: July-October.
• Prime Time for Families: May-June.
• Prime Time for Nightlife Activities: March-April, July-August.
• Best Time for Surfing: October-March.
• Best Time for Underwater Wildlife Watching: Year-round.

• Most Suitable Time Period to Explore Barbados: From May through June represents the initial transitional season each year, rendering this interval the best time to visit Barbados. Peak season tourism is winding down by late April, leaving smaller crowds. Weather remains warm, sunny, and moderately dry as June marks the onset of wetter months. Hotels and resorts start offering reduced rates despite continued amenities and tours. Flight availability also improves since Spring Break, UK Easter Holidays, and March Break have passed. Humidity levels stay mild owing to trade winds, keeping conditions heated yet bearable.
• Preferred Timeframe to Book Barbados Hotels: For a vacation between December to mid-April, searching 6-12 months in advance provides the best variety of hotels and most affordable rates. For the rest of the year, last-minute hotel deals can be found within 3 months or less before your trip, but if visiting during shoulder seasons, make reservations 3-6 months beforehand to ensure you can reserve what you want at a fair price.
• Optimal Period to Preserve Funds: The stormy season in Barbados offers the greatest deals with some resorts providing up to 50% discounts. Between July and November, Barbados experiences its rainiest months and there is a risk of hurricanes – though a hurricane has not made landfall in Barbados since 1955. Despite the rainy weather and hurricane potential, Barbados only sees brief, sharp showers followed by sunshine and heat as high as 31°C. Tourism is minimal during these months with the exception of early August when school holidays and celebrations for Emancipation Day and the Crop Over Festival take place. Usually, the most affordable flights and accommodations can be found from September through November when rainfall peaks and students return to school.
• Best Period to Visit for Pleasant Weather: Barbados lies only 13 degrees north of the equator, meaning the island experiences a tropical climate with consistently warm temperatures throughout the year. The ideal time to visit Barbados to experience reliably good weather is between December and April. Not only is it the driest portion of the year, but temperatures are comfortably warm without being oppressively humid, averaging a high of 29-30°C during the dry season with trade winds alleviating the heat with a cooling breeze.
• Best Time for Families: While visiting during the dry season ensures better weather conditions and reduced rainfall, it tends to be much busier and accommodations are more expensive during this period. Traveling between mid-April and June allows finding deals on flights and lodging, takes advantage of available resort amenities, and benefits from tour operations running on a full schedule—all with generally pleasant weather and activities experiencing less crowds.
• Best Timeframe for Surfing: Barbados is considered the surfing headquarters of the Caribbean region. Waves are pushed toward the island from all angles, allowing surfing throughout the year. As a result, for more experienced surfers searching for a surfing vacation, traveling to Barbados from October to March presents opportunities to catch waves rising up to 12 feet high, while the remainder of the year the maximum height is 6 feet. For beginners, it is suggested to head to Freights Bay, Pebbles, and Surfers Point, where the waves are gentle, while expert surfers can enjoy Soup Bowl, Duppies, and Tropicana.

Barbados Travel Seasons

• Main Travel Period (December through mid-April): The dry time of the year is considered the high season in Barbados because numerous visitors like to come when the temperatures are ideal and the chance of bad weather is minimal. While officially the dry season begins in January, the possibility of rain is very low in December too. Consequently, December through mid-April witness the island receiving most of the tourists and hotels doubling their rates. It is also when numerous cultural events take place and the beaches see plenty of activity. Due to the influx of travelers during this busy time, you must book flights several months in advance. You also need to arrange accommodations, dining spots, and popular excursions a few months ahead to ensure availability. Tours of destinations like Harrison`s Cave and snorkeling trips fill up quickly. A highlight of a visit during this period is resorts offering peak entertainment and water sports being in full swing. If you visit in early December, you might find lower prices than closer to the holidays.
• Shoulder Season (mid-April to June, November): During this time frame on the Barbados calendar, which encompasses mid-April through June and the month of November, the climate is transitioning between the peak tourist season and the off season. From May to June the temperatures are warmer than the busiest months but it remains suitable for beach activities and tours as the large tourist crowds have diminished slightly. While warmer, refreshing winds continue regulating heat levels. Flight availability is improved and lodging properties along with resorts commence lowering pricing after Spring Break and Easter. November heralds the finishing of hurricane season and tapering rains. Although light showers are still possible periodically, high heat and moisture dries surfaces rapidly, allowing extensive sunshine and almost empty beaches to take advantage of. Accommodations cost dramatically less than high season but confirming any hotel renovations have concluded and outings continue operating is wise.
• Off-Peak Period (July to October, except around August 1st for Emancipation Day): The off-peak time falls within the rainy season when prices may drop up to 50% at the most popular resort areas. If you visit before the Barbadian school holidays in August, you’ll find excellent savings on flights and lodging. And even during the school holidays, you`ll locate some great last-minute deals: prices will be much higher than during term time but not as high as peak season rates. The Barbadian school year generally restarts in the first week of September, so any time after that is a good time to visit if you prefer a quiet environment and good deals. One thing to keep in mind is that during the off-peak period, especially between September and October, some hotels, restaurants, and bars will be closed. However, the off-peak time allows you to have a better selection of restaurants that are open and you will rarely need a reservation during this time of the year

Barbados Weather by Month

• Barbados Weather in January: The typical everyday high temperature in January is 26°C. Yet, because of the trade winds, a fresh sea breeze from the Atlantic will cool you off and control the dampness. Conditions remain pleasantly warm in the nights, with an average low of 21°C, but it can feel cooler owing to the trade winds. Even though there are about 13 days of rain, January remains one of the driest months of the year with brief tropical showers that do not persist for very long. There are nearly 11 hours of daylight in January and 9 hours of sunshine, offering ample time for the beach and excursions, but UV levels are extremely high, so do not forget your sunscreen. Pack your swimming suits as the ocean is comfortably warm at 27°C. Additionally, bring summer clothing and some light layers or a shawl for the cooler evenings. Bringing along a waterproof bag to protect your electronics and valuables is also advised in case you are caught in a quick tropical shower. (Average High Temperature: 29°C. Average Precipitation: 63mm.)
• Barbados Weather in February: The conditions of warmth and dryness continue into the month of February. The average maximum daily temperature increases to 27°C, though the average minimum daily temperature remains at 21°C. The trade winds provide a good breeze that keeps things cool and regulates the humidity levels. The sea is warm at 26°C, making it perfect for swimming and water activities. Rainfall levels stay very low in February, with only 9 days expected to see rain, which appears as a quick downpour, leaving plenty of time to enjoy the 9 hours of sunshine, low humidity, and all the cultural festivals and events. Pack as you would for January, remembering those light layers for the cool evenings and sun protection for strong UV rays during the daytime hours. (Average Max Temperature: 29°C. Average Precipitation: 56mm.)
• Barbados Weather in March: As the final month before humidity rises, March sees average daily highs around 29°C yet average nightly lows of 21°C. Sunshine hovers at around 9 hours each day while the sea maintains its warmth at 26°C. Furthermore, March remains the driest time of the year with only 7 rainy days, allowing perfect situations to spend long beach days, swim, and engage in other outside activities. Pack lightweight tropical wear, swimsuits, and sun security like SPF 35 or higher sunscreen as UV beams prove intense in Barbados. (Average Max Temperature: 30°C. Average Precipitation: 39mm.)
• Weather conditions in Barbados for the month of April: April marks the end of the peak tourist season and remains a popular time for visitors as temperatures remain high at around 29°C despite a small rise from March. Nightly lows rise to approximately 22°C. Trade winds continue to blow in April, so light layers may be needed for evenings. April is still relatively dry with anticipated rainfall on around 7 days for the month. Sea surface temperatures also increase to 27°C, so packing swimsuits as well as lightweight summer attire, open-toed footwear, and sun protection is advisable. (Average Maximum Temperature: 30°C. Average Precipitation: 51mm.)
• Weather Conditions in Barbados for the Month of May: May marks the beginning of a transitional period in Barbados` climate but as it is the last month prior to the rainy season commencing, conditions remain favorable. typically the maximum daily temperature is around 29°C yet the strong consistent trade winds make the heat feel more comfortable during daylight hours while the average low of 23°C provides relief in the evenings. May experiences approximately 7 days with precipitation but also sees an average of 8 hours of sunshine daily, allowing plenty of time for sightseeing, relaxing on the less busy beach, and swimming in the warm 28°C ocean waters. When packing for your visit in May, have light summer attire, multiple swimsuits, and various methods of sun protection like high SPF sunscreen. (Average Maximum Temperature: 31°C. Average Rainfall: 66mm.)
• June Weather in Barbados: The likelihood of brief tropical showers increases in June as it begins the rainy season with an average of 14 days expected to see rain. However, showers generally only occur in the afternoon and end swiftly, leaving plenty of time to enjoy the warm sunny weather. The common daily high is 31°C and doesn’t tend to vary – only decreasing in the evenings to 24°C. The sea temperature stays at 28°C and you can expect an average of 8 hours of sunshine each day. Warm clothing will not be required in June but definitely pack several swimwear selections along with light summer layers and some rain protection like a waterproof bag to safeguard valuables during those swift tropical downpours. Sun security like a sun hat and sunscreen are also crucial to bring along as UV levels are extreme in June. (Average Max Temperature: 31°C. Average Precipitation: 119mm.)
• Barbados Weather in July: The month of July marks the beginning of the hurricane season on Barbados, which lasts through November. The chance of experiencing hurricanes is quite low as they normally pass north of the Caribbean sea. However, they can impact the island`s weather as the number of days with rain increases to 19. Rather than continuous rain, there tend to be short downpours or storms, which usually give way to hot and sunny conditions again quickly drying everything. The average daily high temperature is 30°C in July dropping to 23°C at night. You can expect 8 hours of daily sunshine and the sea stays warm at 28°C, so be sure to pack swimsuits and sun protection along with lightweight tropical-friendly clothing. Odds are your vacation will pass without storms, but planning for rain by checking hurricane forecasts before travel is still wise. Also pack good rain gear, a waterproof bag, and even a light rain jacket. Consider travel insurance covering you if weather prevents travel as an extra precaution. (Average Max Temperature: 31°C. Average Precipitation: 141mm.)
• Climate Conditions in Barbados for the Month of August: August marks the peak of summer on the island of Barbados with elevated moisture levels, warm temperatures, and approximately fifteen days of rain on average. The precipitation generally manifests as moderately brief showery periods in the afternoons and evenings, allowing ample opportunity to enjoy the routinely hot daily high of 31°C and eight hours of sunlight. The nights retain warmth, only cooling down to 23°C, so lightweight layers won’t be necessary, though be sure to pack swimming attire as the ocean temperature is around 28°C. Pack breezy summer outfits, sandals, and a water-resistant carrier to safeguard valuables in case you get caught in a tropical downpour. It is particularly important to bring sun protection, reapply sunscreen regularly, and stay hydrated during this time frame. The climate could become too humid for more strenuous undertakings like hiking but beach days and attending the Grand Kadooment Day are excellent alternatives if visiting early in the month. (Average Maximum Temperature: 31°C. Average Precipitation: 163mm.)
• Weather Conditions in Barbados for September: September constitutes the heart of the hurricane season and encounters some of the maximum rainfall across the year with typically 15 days involving precipitation. The rainfall generally surfaces in quick and heavy bursts, meaning there are plenty of extended, clear days with an average peak of 30°C and an average low of 23°C. The ocean is at its warmest in September at 29°C and with 8 hours of sunshine, there is ample time to enjoy the warm waters and sunny beaches. Pack similarly as you would for August – lightweight tropical-friendly attire as well some rain gear including waterproof footwear, a waterproof bag, sandals, and sun protective measures. Be certain to apply sunscreen on a regular basis as ultraviolet radiation levels are extremely elevated. (Average Maximum Temperature: 30°C. Average Precipitation: 169mm.)
• Barbados Weather Conditions in October: October tends to be the wettest month of the year and also one of the more unpredictable periods regarding potential intense storms because of the hurricane season, with around 15 days of rain typically. Nevertheless, it is significant to note that as the easternmost Caribbean island, Barbados does not generally encounter major storms or hurricanes – the last sizable hurricane to strike the land was in 1955; yet, the possibility for it occurring again exists. Be sure to check the hurricane forecast prior to travel and also purchase comprehensive travel insurance to cover unexpected weather changes that may impact your trip. Despite the rain and risk of storms, on average 7 hours of sunshine can still be enjoyed on clearer days. The average high temperature in October is 30°C, falling to 23°C at night. UV levels stay extremely high, so be certain to protect your skin with plenty of sun protection and also pack waterproof gear, an waterproof bag, waterproof shoes, combined with lightweight summer clothing that wicks away moisture. Also pack swimsuits as the ocean is wonderfully warm at 29°C and sturdy walking shoes for indoor activities like visiting museums and the rum distillery at St Nicholas Abbey on rainy days. (Average Max Temperature: 30°C. Average Precipitation: 182mm.)
• Barbados Weather in November: The month of November brings the close of hurricane season as the wet period begins to wind down. There are still quite a few days with rain, averaging 14, but the potential for major storms has diminished. With 8 hours of average daily sunlight, high temperatures peaking at 30°C, and ocean water maintaining a warm 28°C, there remain many prospects for beautiful hot sunny beach days. Evenings see the mercury dip to 23°C, so thicker layers aren`t essential though coastal breezes can give coolish nights warranting a lightweight shawl or sweater. Pack lightweight summer items, swimsuits, open-toe shoes and sandals, and moisture-wicking apparel for humidity as well as sun protection with UV rays remaining elevated. (Average Max Temperature: 30°C. Average Precipitation: 178mm.)
• Weather Conditions in Barbados for December: December marks a transition to drier and less humid weather across Barbados compared to previous autumn months, with monthly rainfall decreasing by approximately half versus November. Thirteen days with precipitation can be expected during December, yet downpours will pass quickly due to higher average high temperatures of 29°C and roughly eight hours of average daily sunlight enabling surfaces to dry swiftly. Evenings commence cooling down to a mean low of 22°C, so travelers should pack some lightweight layers since nights can feel cooler with trade winds moderating heat and moisture levels. Bathers should also bring swimming suits since ocean waters stay comfortably warm at approximately 28°C for swimming. Attire suited for tropical climates such as summer clothing, sandals, and open-toed shoes along with ample sun protection are recommended given extremely elevated UV radiation levels. (Average Max Temperature: 29°C. Average Precipitation: 95mm.)

Barbados Holidays, Events, and Festivals

Barbados in January

This luxury boutique hotel in Lyon offers wonderful amenities along with a trendy atmosphere. It has an incredible location on Fourvière Hill with stunning views of the city yet is within a short walk of Vieux Lyon, shops, restaurants, and Lyon`s center
• Errol Barrow Day (January 21) – A public holiday commemorating the birthday of Errol Barrow, Barbados` inaugural Prime Minister. Marked on January 21st with celebrations and a picnic at Barclays Park. When the 21st falls on a weekend, the subsequent Monday serves as the holiday instead. While commercial businesses close and transportation reduces, all island tourist facilities remain open.
• Barbados Film Festival (January 14-19) – An entire week devoted to films, including unique events highlighting elements of each screening and networking for filmmakers, industry professionals, donors, and movie lovers in St. Michael, Barbados. This festival spotlights the work of directors, producers, and actors worldwide and incorporates screenings, workshops, island trips, and other distinctive occasions.
• Round Barbados Sailing Week (January 17-23) – Formerly called the Mount Gay Round Barbados Series, the Caribbean race season’s opening regatta is now known as Round Barbados Sailing Week and is organized in St. Michael. The headlining race gives crews a chance to gain their skipper’s weight in rum if any of the 20 records are broken. One race takes place on Errol Barrow Day – adding to the festivities around the island.

Barbados in February

• Sun, Sea, and Slams Bridge Tournament (February 10-15) – An annual Bridge Festival that attracts players from all corners who come together to play bridge in Christ Church.
• The Holetown Festival (February 16-23) – The festival takes place in Holetown and commemorates the anniversary of the initial English settlement here on February 17, 1627. The week-long celebration occurs mid-February each year and includes activities that showcase the culture and traditions of Barbados. Events comprise folk singing and dancing, sports and games, street parades, markets, and traditional Barbados cuisine food stalls.
• An emboldened link points to Agrofest (February 28-March 1) – The Agricultural Society’s annual National Agricultural Exhibition usually takes place in the last weekend of February at Queen’s Park in St. Michael. Farmers, crafts people, and agricultural producers gather along with 60,000 visitors. Competitions between farmers, entertainers, and more make up this exhibition.

Barbados in March

• Important annual Barbados horse racing event (March 7) – One of the foremost occasions in the Eastern Caribbean horse racing calendar and the biggest sporting function on the island with overseas jockeys and trainers traveling to Barbados to participate. The function takes place at the Historic Garrison Savannah in Bridgetown from 12-6 pm.
• World Surfing League (March 17-22) – The inaugural Barbados Surf Pro QS 3,000 was scheduled to occur in St. Joseph from March 17-22 in 2020 but due to COVID-19, the event has been postponed.

Barbados in April

• Good Friday (variable dates) – The Friday before Easter is a public holiday in Barbados when commercial businesses close and transportation may operate on a reduced schedule, but all tourist facilities on the island remain available.
• Vujaday Music Festival (early April) – A musical gathering occurring across the island throughout numerous days featuring different styles of electronic music in addition to cultural events.
• Oistins Festival – An annual event that commemorates the contributions of local fishermen each Easter weekend in the village of Oistins, located in the Christ Church parish. It is Barbados`s biggest community festival, featuring activities for both children and adults alike. Events include calypso and reggae performances at roadside stalls, dancing, food and drink stalls serving traditional Bajan cuisine, local arts and crafts for sale, as well as competitions such as fish-boning and greased-pole climbing.
• Easter Monday – Easter Monday is an official public holiday in Barbados. One tradition observed around Easter on the island includes kite flying and on Easter Monday specifically, there is an authorized kite-flying contest. Being a public holiday, corporate organizations will close and transit may operate on a decreased schedule, yet all tourist amenities on the island remain accessible.
• Barbados Reggae Festival (April-end) – An annual 5-day reggae music celebration in St. Michael that draws artists and visitors from all over the world.

`

• National Heroes’ Day (April 28) – Every April 28 is a day set aside in Barbados to honor the 10 official national heroes who are deemed to have made the biggest positive contributions throughout the nation’s history. Festivities are held at the National Heroes Square in Bridgetown, where there are food stalls, music concerts, cultural events, games, and even fireworks. As a public holiday, commercial businesses will close and transport may operate on a reduced schedule, but all tourist facilities on the island remain open.

`

Barbados in May

• May Day (May 1) – Barbados celebrates May Day on the first Monday of every May, giving employees a three-day weekend to share with loved ones and attend Labor Day parades, union gatherings, and other related events. As a public holiday, commercial establishments will close and transportation schedules may be reduced but all tourist facilities on the island remain accessible.
• Barbados Ninja Throwdown – A local athletic contest held in Barbados highlights some obstacles similar to those seen on the television program “American Ninja Warrior” together with local modifications. The event demonstrates the power and specialized talents of the contestants and draws over 3,000 spectators.
• Festive Fridays (May 15-December 18) – From the midpoint of May up until mid-December on each Friday evening, the complimentary entrance Bridgetown Night Market is held at the Pelican Craft Centre from 4 pm until midnight. This Night Market offers food and drinks specials, breadfruit bowls, live performances, and shopping opportunities. It also incorporates a Riddim Route Street Parade along Trevor’s Way from 7-10 pm.
• Gospel Festival (mid-May) – The Caribbean’s Premier International Christian Musical and Artistic Event has top local, regional, and international gospel performers each year across 9 days at Farley Hill National Park.
• Celtic Festival (May 19-24) – A musical and culinary festival celebrating the shared history between the Celtic nations of Scotland, Ireland, Wales, and Nova Scotia with Barbados. Visiting musicians such as bagpipers, folk singers, dancers, and fiddlers perform with local musicians to celebrate Barbados’ musical history.
• The Sol Rally Barbados (end of May) – For 30 years, Sol Rally Barbados has been operating as an International Stage Rally. It is the largest annual international motorsport occasion in the Caribbean. The event has hosted more than 350 drivers and co-drivers from over 30 nations and draws 2,500 visitors.
• Equestrian Racing At The Garrison (May 23-December 26) – For over 150 years, the historic Garrison Savannah has hosted thoroughbred horse races. Races normally take place on Saturdays throughout the year, with extra race days on some public holidays. There are usually 9 races per day, starting around 12:30 pm or later and finishing around 6 pm, subject to the time of year. Entrance fees to the various stands range from Bds$10 to Bds$100 for the day. Special (higher) prices apply to Gold Cup Day in early March. Admission is free to the grounds.
• Hunterspring Sunday Grooves (May 31-December 27) – A local jazz skill show which runs every last Sunday of the month from 2-7 pm in St. Philip.
• Sol Rally Barbados (May-end) – The Sol Rally Barbados has been operating as an International All-Stage Rally for 30 years. It is the largest annual international motorsports event in the Caribbean. The rally has hosted more than 350 drivers and co-drivers representing over 30 countries and attracts approximately 2,500 visitors.

Barbados in June

• Whit Monday (changeable dates) – Noting the completion of the Easter cycle that began 90 days prior with Ash Wednesday at the earliest starting point of Lent, Whit Monday is a open occasion in Barbados. There are no enormous celebrations to mark Whit Monday with the exception of Church administrations. As a open occasion, business foundations will close and transport may run on a diminished timetable, however all visitor offices on the island stay open.

The hotel website and check rates for Pulitzer on Booking.com

• Aquatic Ball in Paradise Shore Festival (June 5-7) – An open water ball tournament for experts and seniors hosted in Carlisle Bay.
• Crop Over Festival (June-end to early-August) – An annual festivity spread across 3 months and hosted in Bridgetown, celebrating the tradition of the final harvest and transport of sugarcane for the season, the roots of which date back to the 1780s. The festival commences with the Crop Over Launch and Ceremonial Conveyance of the Last Canes and culminates with the Grand Kadooment Day.
• Variety’s Annual Row for Charity (June 28) – An annual donating event in its 20th year, where rowing teams partake in a row throughout Carlisle Bay and vie for various rewards. Kayaking and swimming relays are also held.

Barbados in July

• Annual Dive Fest (July 3-12) – An yearly event hosted by The Barbados Dive Operators Association that raises awareness about Barbados’ coral reefs and reef fish populations and encourages locals to learn more regarding the ecosystems surrounding the island. The festival presents water awareness programs, scuba and freediving demonstrations, beach clean ups, dry tours led by conservationists, conservation tips, lionfish hunting and tasting, as well as scuba dives all over the island and along the east coast.
• Pan Pun De Sand Festival (mid-July) – An event held at 4 pm on Brandons Beach as part of the Crop Over Festival celebrations.
• Junior Kadooment (July-end) – Held at the Kensington Oval in St. Michael from 9 am, the Junior Kadooment serves as part of the Crop Over Festival schedule and involves children dressed in colorful costumes who compete for titles and prizes by parading through the Bands. The function highlights the Kings & Queens of the Junior Bands, Parade of the Junior Bands, Party Zone, Cool Down Zone, and After Party. The family-friendly event, which is open to island visitors interested in experiencing the festival, takes place at the venue.
• Soca Monarch Finals (July-end) – Held at the National Botanical Gardens in St Michael, this competition is a massive event attracting over 10,000 people to watch some of the world’s best soca artists. The event is part of the Crop Over Festival and admission starts at Bds$50.
• Pic-O-De-Crop Finals (July-end/early-August) – This event signifies the concluding portion of a series of calypso musical shows and gatherings held all through the length of the Crop Over Festival period. Situated at the Kensington Oval in Bridgetown, the 9 finalists vie for the Calypso Monarch title. The function begins at 8 pm and entrance starts at Bds$50.
• The Foreday Morning Jam, occurring from late July to early August, represents a nighttime street celebration with a parade of organized bands who cover themselves in mud and body paint while partying through the roadways. As one of the many Crop Over Festival activities, it acts as a precursor to the Grand Kadooment Celebrations. Signaling the start of the adult street parades for the Crop Over Festival, this event takes place right following the Pic-O-De-Crop Calypso competition finals. Commencing at 1:30 am and lasting until 6 am, the Jam typically transverses from Bridgetown to Spring Garden Highway.
• Bridgetown Market (July-end/early-August) – Held at Spring Garden, this 4-day street festival and marketplace is a major event during the Crop Over Festival season. Vendors line an extended portion of the highway in Bridgetown selling various goods along with live entertainment. Admission is free and it`s family-friendly. To escape the summer heat, visitors can pop over to nearby Brandons Beach.

Barbados in August

• Emancipation Day (August 1) – A national bank holiday, Emancipation Day commemorates the abolition of slavery in Barbados. With the exception of restaurants and hotels, all schools, government institutions, banks, and supermarkets are closed.
• Grand Kadooment Day (first Monday in August) – Signifying the finish of the Harvest Over Festival, an expansive and majestic parade and carnival road rally starts at the National Stadium and travels down the Mighty Grynner Highway. It’s a striking visual and musical masquerade procession with revelers, dressed in sequined-costumes embellished with colorful feathers and gems, dancing behind music trucks and moving bars. The grand finale is the primary attraction of the annual festival and draws people from all over the globe with approximately 15,000 participants and spectators.
• Barbados International Hockey Festival (August 16-22) ยท This annual event brings teams together from everywhere in the world to compete in field hockey and partake in social occasions and activities for both players and spectators.

Barbados in September

• Beer Event (September 9-10) – A 2-day symposium of brewers, equipment, and ingredient suppliers for beer lovers held at the Courtyard by Marriott Bridgetown.

Barbados in October

• Event featuring jazz music and golf in Barbados (October 7-11) – A weekend including concerts, comedy shows, island activities, and charity golf with various contemporary jazz and R&B artists performing in St. Michael. The charity golf tournament will benefit the Never Lose Your Drive Foundation and the Headstart Music Program in Barbados. Package deals and promotional codes are available for visitors lodging at the Hilton.
• Barbados Food and Rum Festival (October 29-November 1) – Every autumn, local, regional, and international chefs create dishes and beverages that provide colorful and flavorful experiences for foodies and visitors at this festival. It includes live cooking demonstrations, fun pop-up events, rum tastings, and a ‘gourmet safari’. Events occur in various locations across the island.

Barbados in November

• The Illumination Ceremony (November 1st) – This event commemorates when Barbados became completely independent from Great Britain. It is held on the first of November in Independence Square, Bridgetown. Blue, yellow, and black light bulbs similar to Christmas lights are used to decorate government and historic Parliament buildings in the city. The lights remain lit each night through the month of November and the Christmas season.
• Independence Day (November 30) – Barbados celebrates its independence from Great Britain which was obtained in 1966, on November 30th every year with the Independence Day Parade and some formal ceremonies at the Kensington Oval stadium. The parade showcases organizations like the Barbados Boy Scout Association, Barbados Girl Guides, Royal Barbados Police Force, and the military units. However, November 30th simply marks the culmination of a month-long series of sports matches, fairs, crafts exhibits, and assorted patriotic and spiritual events commemorating Barbados’ autonomy. Independence Day is an official public holiday in Barbados leading to most commercial operations being closed and transportation running on a reduced schedule, yet all tourist facilities on the island hold regular hours.

Barbados in December

• Run Barbados Marathon Weekend (December 4-6) – A weekend with various jogs and runs – something for everyone with a 5k, 10k, a midnight fun-mile run and walk, a half-marathon, and a marathon. Generally held around Barbados’ Independence time, the race is intended to coincide with other holiday activities. The running route is uniquely scenic, winding through Bridgetown’s historic streets, seaport, past the Parliament buildings, over the Chamberlain Bridge, and along the west coast with views of the Caribbean Sea and Independence Square for the marathon and half-marathon.
• Christmas Day (December 25) – In Barbados, Christmas is a national holiday that is commemorated by eating special foods, attending religious services, decorating homes, and spending time with family and friends. Some Yuletide traditions and events in Barbados include loud Christmas music played publicly, lights displayed on nearly every building, and fashion shows held in Queen’s Park in Bridgetown. As a national holiday, most businesses are closed except for restaurants and hotels. All schools, government agencies, banks, and supermarkets have their doors shut as well.
• The day after Christmas (December 26th) – Boxing Day is a public holiday. It is a non-working day for most people and educational institutions as well as commercial establishments like supermarkets are closed. The final day of horse racing is held on Boxing Day at The Historic Garrison Savannah. Boxing Day originates from Britain and is still celebrated in many Commonwealth nations, including Barbados.
• New Year’s Eve (December 31) – New Years Eve is not an official public holiday in Barbados and companies maintain regular operating hours. Many in Barbados will attend midnight mass on New Year’s Eve and then go home to celebrate into the early morning. Fireworks presentations are put on for the community at the south-western beaches, Hastings boardwalk, and St Lawrence Gap.