Junkanoo Festival

As the major cultural festival of the Bahamas, Junkanoo is a wonderful celebration of life and freedom. A Bahamian street parade that features music, dance, and costumes, Junkanoo is celebrated every Boxing Day (December 26) and New Year’s Day (January 1). While the most spectacular Junkanoo parade and events occur in Nassau, Eleuthera also boasts some pretty amazing activities and parade, making the island an incredible destination for those seeking local flavor.

First, a little history. Junkanoo began approximately in the late 16th or 17th century. Around the holidays, the Bahamian slaves were granted a few days off. This allowed them to leave the plantations to be with their families and to celebrate the holiday with music, dance and costumes. In the early years, Junkanoo participants wore grotesque masks and walked on stilts. They were allowed to move around anonymously and let off steam.

Now deemed as one of the world’s best festivals, this colorful celebration has continued on throughout the years.

2016/2017 Dates

Eleuthera Junkanoo Parade
Hosted by the Harbour Boys
Saturday, January 7, 2017 @ 7pm