2026 Events Calendar
Turks and Caicos Islands
An Ocean of Experiences
AMESSAGEFROM MINISTER OFTOURISM
The Turks and Caicos Islands is a vibrant collection of islands, rich in culture, creativity, and community spirit While our world-class beaches are often the first draw for visitors, many travellers are seeking more than sun and sand. They want to connect with our people, experience our traditions, and feel the authentic rhythm of island life
Across the Caribbean, events such as sailing regattas, sporting competitions, culinary showcases, Carnivals and music festivals play an important role in shaping a destination’s identity With this Events Calendar, the Ministry of Tourism and Experience Turks and Caicos is positioning the Turks and Caicos Islands within a year-round regional calendar of experiences We describe our multi-island destination as an “Ocean of Experiences”, and this calendar brings that promise to life Each island offers signature events that celebrate its unique character while encouraging both domestic and international travel.
Community is at the heart of who we are, and our events provide a meaningful way for residents and visitors to engage with our culture. By supporting these activities, we also strengthen our local economy, creating opportunities for vendors, artisans, creatives, and small businesses I encourage everyone to share this calendar, attend our events, and help us continue building a tourism industry that benefits all Turks and Caicos Islanders
EVENTS CALENDAR
VALENTINE’SDAYCUP
FEBURARY 14 MIDDLECAICOS TH
Held on the award-winning Bambarra Beach on or around Valentine’s Day each year, the Valentine’s Day Cup is a model boat regatta competition featuring miniature sloops in categories such as the Premier’s Cup, Men’s Open, Ladies’ Open and B Class The day also includes live music and food The event was established in 2000, when Daniel O Forbes, of Bambarra, Middle Caicos, decided it was time to bring back the traditional sport of his childhood, racing hand carved gum-elemi model sailboats Together with Brodie Forbes, and noted boat builders Headley, Marcus and Carlin Forbes, the plans were made, boats carved, rigged and painted – and the first event held for a new year race, in January 2000 From that date, over 70 boats model sailboats have been carved and sold
BIGSOUTHREGATTA
MAY21 TO23 ST RD
SOUTHCAICOS
One of the Turks and Caicos Islands’ oldest and most beloved traditions, the Big South Regatta celebrates the cultural heritage and seafaring spirit of South Caicos
Established in 1966 to honour Queen Elizabeth II’s first official visit, the regatta has grown into a vibrant weekend of boat races, parades, music, food, and community pride. Visitors can experience the island’s warm hospitality, cheer on traditional sloops as they compete on the water, and enjoy a true taste of TCI culture at this signature national event
OCTOBER2026
SEPTEMBER2026
NOVEMBER2026
DECEMBER2026
SALTCAYHOMECOMING
JUNE 5 TO 7 TH TH
On the tiny island of Salt Cay, once the powerhouse of salt production in the Turks and Caicos Islands, an annual tradition brings the past gently into the present Each June, former residents, many now settled across the Turks and Caicos or abroad, return for a joyful Homecoming weekend that fills the quiet island with music, laughter, and memory
Salt Cay Homecoming features live performances, domino tournaments, local cuisine, and warm fellowship It was created to reconnect families after the decline of the salt industry in the 1960s, a period that led many young people to seek opportunities elsewhere and left the island’s population dramatically reduced The event serves as both a reunion and a reminder of identity More than a celebration, it is a tribute to Salt Cay’s remarkable heritage Once a global producer of “white gold,” the island played a defining role in regional trade from the late 1600s to the mid-20th century During Homecoming, stories of Bermudian settlers and the enslaved labourers who shaped the salinas are shared across generations, ensuring their legacy remains alive in the hearts of all who return
SUMMAJAM
JUNE 26 TO 27 TH TH GRANDTURK
TI Summa Jam is an annual cultural and entertainment festival held in Grand Turk, Turks and Caicos Islands, celebrating local talent, culture, music, pageantry, and community spirit It features a variety of activities such as motorcades, talent showcases, parades, musical performances, and cultural exhibits hosted over multiple days, often including events like Miss and Little Miss Grand Turk pageants, live bands, DJs, dance, food, and more The event is rooted in promoting and recognizing local performers and creative talent and is widely seen as a celebration of Grand Turk’s cultural identity and entertainment heritage Founders of the event, Walter and Rita Gardiner, describe it as focusing on discovering, recognising, promoting, and encouraging local talent while “keeping the vibe alive” on the island TI Summa Jam dates back to 1995, making it one of the long-standing cultural festivals in the Turks and Caicos Islands It has been held annually over the summer months and typically culminates in pageantry, parades, and a talent and culture showcase where local artists and bands perform.
KEWDAYFEST
OCTOBER 17
NORTHCAICOS TH
Held in October, Kew Fest pays homage to the Kew Fest community in North Caicos Held on the Bellefield Landing, next to the ferry port, the event draws people from all over the Turks and Caicos Islands for a day of local and regional musical performances, food, drinks and fun. Kew Fest started as a wedding party in North Caicos four years ago and has now become an annual staple, growing in numbers each year since. The event, organised by the non-profit TCI Unity, is also a fundraising charity event from which funds are donated to schools and institutions around the Turks and Caicos Islands
MASKANOO
DECEMBER 26
PROVIDENCIALES TH
Held on Boxing Day in Providenciales, Maskanoo combines the Junkanoo traditions with the Massin’ traditions of the Turks and Caicos Islands Massin’ originated in slavery days when the enslaved Africans donned masks and costumes around Christmas time and danced to Ripsaw music Today, Maskanoo is the biggest street festival in the destination and includes a parade, live performances, a vendor market and lots of food and drink, all taking place along the Grace Bay stretch The event was conceptualised in 2009 by cultural icon David Bowen during his tenure as the country’s Director of Culture The Turks and Caicos Hotel and Tourism Association (TCHTA) manage the event today with involvement from the Department of Culture In 2025, Maskanoo celebrated 15 years of existence and the programme included cultural trivia and giveaways, a conch-shell blowing competition, maypole dancing, school dance performances, spoken word, poetry and multiple live music sets by local bands.
Phone: (649)-946-4970
Email: info@myexperiencetci.com The Regent Village, Unit H205, Grace Bay Rd. Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands, TKCA 1ZZ
Email: ldowrich@myexperiencetcicom
Phone: (649)-341-4071
Website: visitturksandcaicoscom