Kick off the new year in Barbados with vibrant events, world-class sailing, music festivals, and one-of-a-kind celebrations! Whether you’re ringing in 2025 in style, soaking up the Caribbean sunshine, or immersing yourself in culture and entertainment, there’s no shortage of exciting activities this January. Here’s a guide to the must-attend events in Barbados to start the year off right!
New Year’s Eve at Surfer’s Bay (December 31, 2024 – January 1, 2025)
Location: Silver Sands, Christ Church
Time: From 7 PM
Start the new year with a bang at Surfer’s Bay! Celebrate under the stars with an unforgettable evening of live music, DJ sets, and unbeatable vibes. The party kicks off at 8:30 PM with incredible live performances, including the talented @ritesideofred1. Expect drink specials, great energy, and a buzzing crowd ready to welcome 2025 in true Bajan style. Stay tuned for the full lineup and get ready to party all night long!
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Barbados Sailing Week (January 10 – 23, 2025)
Barbados Sailing Week is the ultimate event for water sports enthusiasts and sailing fans. The schedule offers exciting races and competitions, including the iconic Mount Gay Round Barbados Race, alongside vibrant celebrations onshore.
Event Highlights:
- January 11-12: Junior Dinghy Races – Barbados Cruising Club & Yacht Club
- January 18-19: Coastal Sailing Races – Carlisle Bay & Richard Haynes Boardwalk
- January 18-19: Kitesurfing & Wingfoiling – Long Beach & Welches Beach
- January 21: The Mount Gay Round Barbados Race – View the action island-wide
- January 21: Mount Gay Red Hat Party – Barbados Cruising Club
- January 23: Rum to Spice Offshore Race – Barbados to Carriacou
Whether you’re cheering from the shore or joining the sailors, Barbados Sailing Week is a thrilling showcase of skill and adventure.
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On-The-Water Party Zone (January 19, 2025)
Location: Carlisle Bay
Time: 9 AM – 2 PM
Get ready for the On-The-Water Party Zone during Barbados Sailing Week! On January 19th, bring your boat and raft up to witness the Coastal Races up close. This is your chance to cheer on the competitors, soak up the vibrant atmosphere, and enjoy a unique party right on the water.
Naniki Barbados Music Festival (January 25 – 26, 2025)
Location: Suriname, St. Joseph
Escape to the lush hills of Suriname, St. Joseph, for the Naniki Barbados Music Festival, where music and nature combine for an unforgettable experience. Featuring regional and international acts across genres like soca, reggae, and jazz, this festival is a must for music lovers looking to unwind in a picturesque setting.
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The Barbados Independent Film Festival (January 29 – February 2, 2025)
Location: See Website for Details
Celebrate the art of storytelling at the Barbados Independent Film Festival (BIFF). This annual event showcases independent films from around the world, highlighting stories that inspire, entertain, and spark conversation.
Festival Highlights:
- Screenings of feature films, documentaries, and short films
- “Shorts on the Beach” – ocean-themed adventure shorts screened on the sand
- Final Festival Feature and closing beach party
BIFF is the perfect way to experience creativity and culture against the backdrop of Barbados’ stunning scenery.
FIX25 – The Ultimate Fintech Experience (January 22 – 24, 2025)
Location: Wyndham Grand Barbados, St. Philip
For those with a passion for innovation and finance, the Fintech Islands Experience (FIX25) is the premier global fintech conference in the Caribbean. Held at the luxurious Wyndham Grand Barbados Sam Lords Castle, this event connects industry leaders, startups, and professionals from around the globe.
Whether you’re an entrepreneur, investor, or tech enthusiast, FIX25 is the place to network and explore the future of fintech.
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Start 2025 Right in Barbados
From thrilling sailing races and beachside music festivals to innovative global conferences, Barbados is packed with unforgettable experiences this January. Whether you’re celebrating New Year’s Eve at Surfer’s Bay, dancing at Naniki Music Festival, or cheering sailors at the Mount Gay Round Barbados Race, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
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