Cat Island

This holiday commemorates the day when The Bahamas became a fully independent nation on July 10, 1973, separating from the United Kingdom. However, we remain a member of The Commonwealth of Nations.

The Christmas holiday is celebrated in The Bahamas with many carnivals and festivals. We also have adopted many of the same traditions and customs of other countries. These include gift-giving, feasting and sending Christmas cards.

This holiday marks the end of the Easter cycle and the beginning of public witness of the Christian church. It is the Monday after Whit Sunday, The Feast of Pentecost, which comes 50 days after Easter.

This annual homecoming celebration for former and current residents of Cat Island feature a weekend of activities, including a church service, gospel concerts, live band performances by Bahamian recording artists, Junkanoo Rush-out, family fun and games, local food and drinks on sale. It takes place every year during the Discovery Day holiday weekend. The Venue for the Festival is the New Bight Park.

Contact: Mr. Ezra Russell / (242) 342-3014

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Local residents and regatta lovers from throughout The Bahamas reunite to celebrate, with racing of Class A, B, and C sloops, live entertainment, cultural activities, games, native food and drinks. This event is held every year during the Emancipation Day holiday weekend.

This annual musical festival, held every year during the Bahamas Labour Day weekend, is the signature event for Cat Island. It showcases the sensuous, rhythmic vibe of the island's premier Rake and Scrape music, performed by local and national artists. It also features a Gospel concert, Battle of the Rake & Scrape Bands, quadrille dancing, a children's corner with games and a fishermen and farmers' market. During the festival, guests can partake of "Down Home" Cat Island cuisine, purchase locally made crafts such as jewelry and straw items.