Things to Do in Barbados This January: Festivals, Flowers & Fun at Sea

January in Barbados is the perfect blend of sunshine, action, culture, and celebration. With international sailing races, floral showcases, artistic previews, and beach parties, the first month of the year offers something for every traveller. Here’s your essential guide to events and experiences happening throughout January 2026.


⛵ Barbados Sailing Week

January 16 – January 22, 2026
📍 Various locations around Barbados

One of the Caribbean’s most anticipated sporting events returns in 2026 with a full roster of races, water sports, and social events.

Key Events & Highlights:

  • Sat Jan 10 & Sun Jan 11
    Junior Dinghy Races — Barbados Cruising Club & Barbados Yacht Club
  • Sat Jan 17 & Sun Jan 18
    Coastal Sailing Races — Richard Haynes Boardwalk & Carlisle Bay
    Kitesurfing & Wingfoil Competitions — Long Beach & Welches Beach
  • Wed Jan 21
    Mount Gay Round Barbados Race — Enjoy the view from multiple coastal vantage points
  • Wed Jan 21
    Mount Gay Red Hat Party — Barbados Cruising Club
  • Thu Jan 22
    Rum to Spice Offshore Race — From Barbados to Carriacou, Grenada

Barbados Sailing Week blends competitive racing with spectator fun, beachside viewing spots, vibrant parties, and daily prizegivings — making it a highlight of the island’s January calendar.

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🌸 Rebirth: The Journey at St. Peter’s Parish Church

January 16 – January 19, 2026
📍 St. Peter’s Parish Church, Orange Street, Speightstown

A four-day festival of floral artistry and community celebration, Rebirth: The Journey features exquisite floral displays, live music, garden experiences, and social gatherings at the historic parish church.

Festival Highlights

Friday, 16 January

  • 5:00pm–7:30pm — Opening Reception & Preview (Admission $60)
  • 8:00pm — Festival Recital featuring the Georgian Bay Concert Choir (Admission $30)

Saturday, 17 January

  • 10:00am–8:00pm — Flower Viewing (Admission $25)
  • 2:00pm–8:00pm — Garden Festival (Free entry to grounds)
  • Afternoon Tea (Optional add-on $20)

Sunday, 18 January

  • 11:00am–5:00pm — Flower Viewing (Admission $25)
  • 12:00pm–3:00pm — Festival Luncheon with Live Entertainment (Admission $75)
  • 6:00pm — Gospel Concert (Admission $30)

Monday, 19 January

  • 10:00am–5:00pm — Flower Viewing (Admission $25)

Ticket Notes:
Season ticket prices increase after 1 January, and children (12 & under) have discounted rates.

This event is perfect for lovers of floral design, music, community gatherings, and social afternoons under Caribbean skies.


🌺 BHS Annual Flower & Garden Show

January 24 – January 25, 2026
📍 Balls, Christ Church
⏰ 10:00am – 5:30pm

Celebrate nature and creativity at this two-day horticultural showcase. With vendors, artful plant displays, and live music, the Flower & Garden Show is ideal for families, gardeners, and visitors looking for a relaxed cultural experience.

Admission:

  • Adults: $20
  • Children under 12: FREE

Participating societies include floral, cactus & succulent, orchid, and bonsai associations — giving the show broad botanical appeal.

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🎨 Artists Studio Tours Sneak Peek Show

January 30, 2026
📍 Lucerne Building, Bridgetown

Kick off the 2026 Artists Studio Tours with this preview exhibition. View works by participating artists, get a taste of Barbados’ contemporary art scene, and meet creators whose studios you can visit later in the year.

Perfect for art lovers and first-time visitors alike, this one-day event is a cultural highlight of the January calendar.


🌴 Scorch Bim Carnival Warm-Up Cooler Cruise

Sunday, 18 January 2026
📍 Boarding at a South Coast Marina — MV Dreamchaser 2
⏰ midday – 5pm

Get ready for high-energy vibes at sea! The Scorch Bim Carnival Warm-Up Cooler Cruise is one of January’s most exciting social outings. Departing on Sunday 18 January aboard the MV Dreamchaser 2, this cruise blends:

  • Soca and Caribbean music pumping from the DJ
  • Cooler vibes with drinks and dancing on deck
  • Scenic coastlines as you sail Barbados’ turquoise Caribbean waters

Think beach party meets boat party — it’s an excellent way to connect with new friends, hear island sounds, and prepare your spirit for the months of carnival-style fun ahead.

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🎯 Why January in Barbados Is Amazing

January isn’t just about beautiful weather (which it absolutely delivers) — it’s a month filled with community spirit, sport, culture, creativity, and celebration. Whether you’re sailing, soaking up floral artistry, cruising with soca beats, or discovering local art, Barbados offers exceptional experiences for every type of visitor.

It’s a perfect time to explore the island’s beaches, enjoy warm ocean swims, and savour Caribbean hospitality — all against the backdrop of lively January events.

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