Cuisine

Given the abundant and diverse marine life in The Bahamas, seafood makes up a significant part of the Bahamian diet. Bahamian cuisine is typified by its use of vibrant and flavorful, often spicy, herbs and seasonings. Crabs, lobsters, and a variety of fish can be served in dishes prepared into several signature Bahamian dishes. However, king (or queen) among foods in The Bahamas is the Conch. The sea mollusc is prepared in a range of ways, from fried to soup, and even prepared as a salad (raw, with onions, peppers, lime, and other spices). The Bahamas is also known for its unique beverages, including Beers and mixed drinks such as the Bahama Mama, Goombay Smash and Gullywash (or “sky juice”).

Music

Music plays a big part in Bahamian culture. Throughout the islands, there are still traces of African rhythms, Caribbean Calypso, English folk songs and a unique Bahamian Goombay traditional music, which combines African musical traditions with European colonial influences. Bahamian musical traditions can be traced back to slavery and the storytelling and dancing performed to a fasttemped“goom-bahhh” beat on a goatskin drum. Many contemporary Bahamian musicians draw on popular musical genres including Rake n Scrape, Reggae, Rhythm and Blues, Jazz, Soca, and Hip Hop.

Festivals

Junkanoo

Junkanoo is often cited as the premier expression of Bahamian culture and is believed to have roots dating to the 16th or 17th Century.

The Junkanoo celebration is an elaborate parade of music, dancing and colourful costumes, all skillfully co-ordinated by participants to reflect themes that depict significant historical and current events, individuals, and even aspects of Bahamian life. Junkanoo parades are usually held during the winter season, with the largest parade happening in the Capital on the morning of Boxing Day (26 December) and New Year’s Day (1 January). Parades are also held on the various islands in The Bahamas, and recently a summer incarnation of the parade has gained notoriety among locals and tourists alike.

Island Regattas

In 1954 a small group of Bahamian and American yachtsmen conceived the idea of holding a regatta for the Bahamian working sailing craft. The overall condition of the working fleet was not good and it was felt that the material condition of the boats would be improved by the preparations necessary to ready the vessel for racing competition. A regatta would also offer a fine opportunity for Bahamian sailors to all gather in one place, have some sport, and a chance for cruising yachtsmen to witness one of the last working sailing fleets in action. At the same time introduce them to the magnificent cruising grounds in The Bahamas. In the late April 1954, nearly 70 Bahamian sloops, schooners, and dinghies gathered in Elizabeth Harbour (Exuma) for three days of racing.

During its existence the Regatta has brought together builders from all over The Bahamas and has pitted their vessels; against one another for the ultimate test of the ability, to build a winner. Racing rules state that a vessel must be Bahamian designed, built, owned, and sailed. Also wherever possible, restrictions on materials used or allowed have been introduced so as to keep these racing boats as closely related to their working forebears; as possible.

Regatta now takes place on many islands, evolving to a festive party along with racing. Many food and beverage vendors sell products at the Regatta site; throughout the day and in the nights many popular Bahamian musicians showcase their performances abilities.

Andros Crab Fest

This annual event, held the second weekend in June, celebrates the crab-catching methods of Andros Island, which is referred to as "The Land of Crabs." Activities include land crabs cooked in various, a crab cultural show, releasing of the crabs, a crab culinary contest, crabs’ life cycle display, and Rake & Scrape Music.

Fox Hill Day Festival

This is the oldest festival in the country, held the second Tuesday in August every year, and it commemorates the freeing of enslaved Africans in The Bahamas. Residents of Fox Hill celebrate the 1838 emancipation of their ancestors from slavery by the British with church services, Bahamian food and drinks, singing, and dancing.

Eleuthera Pineapple Festival

First introduced in 1988, this annual festival is a celebration of the tradition of pineapple farming in Eleuthera, and honors the pineapple farmers for their outstanding contributions to the community. It is designed around the harvesting of pineapples, to create awareness of this once lucrative and important agricultural heritage.

Bahamians and visitors from all walks of life come together to enjoy and participate in pineapple-themed activities, such as a pineapple eating contest, pineapple cooking contest, old time pineapple crazy sports, plaiting of the pineapple pole, non-stop pineapple party time with live entertainment, native food, and much more.

Arts/Craft Works

Bahamian craftwork has evolved over time combining traditions from the various cultures that have influenced the population through its history. Today, straw goods, wood, stone, and shell carvings can all be found on display in one of the many markets that are dedicated to the creation, exhibition and distribution of these unique Bahamian works of art.

A naturally resourceful people, generations of Bahamians have been skilled at crafting natural elements found in The Bahamas to serve more practical and sometimes decorative purposes. Straw, sponge, coral, limestone, shells, and various types of hard wood are all transformed into tools, containers, clothing, jewelry and any other item that can be imagined.

Bush medicine is also a staple of Bahamian tradition and is the use of indigenous plants for medicinal purposes. It is a tradition African slaves brought with them when they were brought to The Bahamas. There are nearly 100 plants found in The Bahamas that can be used for medical treatment. Examples include aloe vera, crab bush, fig leaf, sailors' flowers, and white sage.