*I was invited to The Bahamas Junkanoo Carnival by Visit The Bahamas to share my experience. All opinions are my own*
There’s always a uniqueness to all the Caribbean islands that host a Carnival. Needless to say, I was extremely excited to get an extended invitation to The Bahamas to cover Bahamas Junkanoo Carnival in Nassau just a few days after my birthday trip to Martinique.
What is The Bahamas Junkanoo Carnival?
The Bahamas Junkanoo Carnival is a week-long celebration of culture in the Bahamas. Locals and tourists immerse themselves in Afro Bahamian culture, which includes vivid colors, the best music, finger foods, Bahamian history, art, handmade costumes, and local crafts. If you’re a spectator and have never experienced mas in The Bahamas, here are some ways to celebrate The Bahamas Junkanoo Carnival.
When is Carnival in the Bahamas?
Not to be confused with the Junkanoo celebration, an intense competition celebrated in The Bahamas since the 17th century on Boxing Day, New Year’s Day, and during The Bahamas’s Summer festivals, Carnival time in The Bahamas is celebrated in May. The first Bahamas Junkanoo Carnival was the first weekend in May but has since moved to the second to last weekend in May.
Where to Stay for The Bahamas Carnival
Our group stayed at Warwick Paradise Island, an Adults Only All Inclusive boutique hotel. While it isn’t close to the festivities, it is the perfect escape for relaxing between the main events. For those wanting to be in the middle of the action, the best place to stay is in the downtown area on New Providence Island, close to the parade route, Arawak Cay, Shirley Street, or Bay Street like the SLS Baha Mar, Goldwynn Resorts & Residences, or the Courtyard Marriott. You can use the interactive map to choose a hotel or house rental that meets your budget.
Learn About the Junkanoo Culture
While visiting Nassau for The Bahamas Carnival, you can learn about Junkanoo in The Bahamas in the many museums around the island, like the Junkanoo Expo Museum and Junkanoo World. Owned by Quinton “Barabbas” Woodside, the Junkanoo World Museum and Arts Centre gives the interesting history of John Canoe, The Bahamas Junkanoo culture, the Junkanoo parade and showcases goatskin drums, elaborate costumes, and photos of past festivals. Read about our group’s experience at Junkanoo World Museum from travel and entertainment writer Dyschick.
Attend The Bahamas Carnival Cultural Shows
Visit Da Cultural Village for events catering to individuals and families. Jam to live music while eating Bahamian delicacies in the food courts. Shuttle buses are available from major hotels, or you can visit by taking a 10-minute walk from Downtown Nassau. JunkaMania kicks off the carnival celebration, showcasing the Mas of local bands. Hear live performances from local and international artists at the Music Masters Concert and Competition.
Watch masqueraders in their beautiful costumes parade the streets of Downtown Nassau at the Road Fever Street Party, which concludes the carnival celebration. Like other carnivals in the USA and the West Indies, you can continue the celebration with several night-time fetes (private parties run by local promoters).
Do Other Activities in Nassau
I always encourage learning about a country’s local culture regardless of destination. The Bahamas are more than beautiful beaches, flamingos, and conch fritters. Take a mini-break from the Carnival to see what the islands of the Bahamas have to offer.
Some activities and excursions around Nassau and Paradise Island include a bike tour with the Warwick Paradise Island‘s Resort, rum tasting at John Watlings Distillery, or the Straw Market for hand-made gifts. You can also visit the Atlantis Resort for dining, aquarium, water park fun, and more.
Read More Caribbean Travel Guides Below
How to Spend a Day at the Warwick Bahamas
A Weekend at the Bougainvillea Beach Resort Barbados
The Best Things to Do in Willemstad, Curacao
I love the Bahamas. I was there in 2015. I really enjoyed it. I had never heard of the Junkanoo Carnival before your post. It looks like a fun time. You can’t go wrong with partying in Nassau!
Very true! It was a short stay, but I had a great time. I’ll be back for a cruise in December.
I love seeing photos of carnival celebrations! I want my own costume, lol!
I think it is fun to make. Just get a plain bathing suit and go to town. Wondering if I should do a mini tutorial…
That would be a great future blog post!
As much as I love to travel, I’ve not been to the Bahamas. Thanks for this, gives me another spot to consider!
You’re welcome. I’ll be back in December and hope to explore more if Nassau
My neo is from the Bahamas and Junkanoo was the theme for her wedding. It definitely is an experience I want to have… or anybody’s carnival. I miss living up North or in Miami because the culture was felt. In Texas… not so much lol.
OMG that’s so cool! I hear the carnival in Hollywood, CA is pretty good.
I would love to attend Junkaroo. I have done Carnival in the states but my goal is to do Carnival in the Caribbean and be apart of Mas!
It is new and still pretty affordable. Carnival in the Caribbean is awesome.
NICE!!! I’ve never been to a carnival celebration but this looks fun…they always look fun when I see pictures.
It’s a lot of walking, jumping and fun in general
The Junkanoo Carnival costumes are beautiful. I always adore Carnival looks. I’ve still not made it to Jamaica, I’ve got to get there. I love to experience new cultures.
The Carnival in Jamaica is usually April. My friend went and had a great time. There are some in the smaller islands too and they’re more affordable.
I bet that was so much fun! I’ve been to Caribana, Miami Carnival, and Atlanta carnival but never one in the islands, but it’s on my to-do list! I’ve always wanted to be in costume 🙂
Trinidad Carnival was my first time playing. It was expensive but definitely worth it. I LOVE Caribana!
I wasn’t aware of carnival celebration in Bahamas. I hope to attend one of these in the future. Thanks for the information.
They just started it 3 years ago. Junkanoo is their “thing” so there are other festivals throughout the year.
I have never been to or seen a carnival celebration but it looks like a lot of fun. The costumes are always so elaborate!
It is so much fun! I love it because it shows creativity and country pride.
Oh, wow! This sounds like a really nice event. Ive never been to the Bahamas but when I do go I want to enjoy learning about the history. And of course some good food!
I wish I stayed longer. I LOVE eating local foods