Festivals, Regattas & Island Celebrations in the BVI
The British Virgin Islands (BVI) are not just about turquoise waters and white-sand beaches, they also feature some of the Caribbean’s most lively events. From full moon parties to regattas and lobster festivals, the islands of Tortola, Virgin Gorda, Jost Van Dyke, Beef Island, and Anegada each bring their own energy to the annual BVI events calendar. Whether you’re into sailing, live music, food, or just beach vibes, there’s always something happening in the BVI.
BVI Spring Regatta & Sailing Festival
Held every spring at Nanny Cay Marina on Tortola generally mid-to-late March, the BVI Spring Regatta & Sailing Festival is one of the best yacht racing events in the Caribbean. Sailors from around the world gather for a week of racing, parties, and fun. Expect boat races, beach BBQs, and steel pan music. Need to know more? Check out the BVI Spring Regatta website.
Full Moon Parties at Trellis Bay
One of the most famous recurring events in the BVI is the Full Moon Party at Trellis Bay on Beef Island. These monthly celebrations feature fire dancers, local food stalls, and live calypso and reggae bands. They’re a bucket-list experience for anyone visiting the islands and an easy way to soak up authentic Caribbean culture. As the name suggests these events coincide with the full moon. Check out the Trellis Bay Market website for dates.
New Year’s Eve at Foxy’s, Jost Van Dyke
When it comes to ringing in the New Year, few places can rival Foxy’s on Jost Van Dyke. The regular New Year’s Eve party is one of the best in the Caribbean, drawing travelers, and locals alike for a celebration of live music, beach parties, and BBQ. It’s a must for party lovers planning a holiday trip to the BVI at New Year
Anegada Lobster Festival
Food lovers won’t want to miss the annual Anegada Lobster Festival, usually held in November. Restaurants across the island serve up creative lobster dishes paired with cocktails and live entertainment. It’s the perfect mix of Caribbean seafood, music festivals, and beach parties. Check out the BVI Food Fete website to learn more.
BVI Emancipation Festival
The Emancipation Festival in Road Town, Tortola, is one of the most important cultural events in the BVI. Celebrated in late July and early August, the festival honors the abolition of slavery with calypso competitions, parades, live music, and food fairs. Expect colorful costumes, carnival-style celebrations, and a true showcase of the island’s spirit. It’s definitely an event to go and see if you’re visiting the islands at this time of year.
Restaurant Week in the BVI
Restaurant Week is a celebration of local and international cuisine across Tortola, Virgin Gorda, and Scrub Island. A number of restaurants around the islands come together to celebrate restaurant week where they take part in themes, and special events. Check out some of the restaurants that are participating to get involved and perhaps try something unique.
BVI Poker Run
The BVI Poker Run or the Leverick Bay Poker Run, is a high-energy boating event where participants race between islands to collect poker hands, with plenty of stops for fun. Head to Leverick Bay Resort & Marina on Virgin Gorda to find out more. Typically, the event takes place around May.
Billfish Invitational
The Billfish Invitational or the Scrub Island Billfish Series is a sport fishing competition that attracts anglers from across the region. It’s an invite only, elite event for those who love to fish.
Easter Festival
The Easter Festival on Virgin Gorda in the British Virgin Islands is one of the island’s most anticipated cultural celebrations. Spanning several days, the festival features Fungi music, calypso competitions, and street parties. The highlight is the Easter Monday parade in Spanish Town, where dancers, musicians, and costumed performers fill the streets. It’s a mix of music, culture, and celebration that showcases the spirit of Virgin Gorda.
Beach Parties & Music Fests
From Bomba Shack (aka Bomba Surfside Shack) on Tortola to local events in Leverick Bay, music and dancing is always a popular activity in the BVI. There are too many to list throughout the year so it is worth checking out the local listings to see what is currently on and where.
Where can I find a calendar of upcoming BVI events?
The BVI Tourist Board (bvitourism.com) maintains an updated events calendar, listing festivals, regattas, food events, and cultural celebrations throughout the year. Many local marinas and venues, like Nanny Cay or Trellis Bay, also post event schedules.
List the best food events in the BVI.
The most famous food festival is the Anegada Lobster Festival, held each November. Other highlights include Restaurant Week, featuring fine dining across Tortola, Virgin Gorda, and Scrub Island, as well as regular beach BBQs.
Tell me about sailing events and regattas in the BVI.
The big one is the BVI Spring Regatta & Sailing Festival, hosted at Nanny Cay, Tortola, each spring. This world-class regatta attracts sailors from across the globe and features competitive boat races, yacht charters, and waterfront parties. Smaller sailing festivals and the annual Poker Run boating events also run throughout the year.
Find BVI events related to music and festivals.
Don’t miss Full Moon Parties at Trellis Bay, which feature fire dancers, steel pan bands, and live calypso. Larger celebrations include the BVI Music Festival and cultural showcases during the Emancipation Festival in Road Town.
What BVI events celebrate local culture and traditions?
The biggest cultural celebration is the Emancipation Festival in late July and August, marking the abolition of slavery with parades, food fairs, calypso competitions, and cultural displays.
Celebrate with Chillout Charters
The best way to experience BVI events is by boat. With Chillout Charters, you can create a custom itinerary around festivals, regattas, and beach parties.
Sail into Leverick Bay during a music fest, drop anchor off Scrub Island for a gourmet event, or join the fun at Trellis Bay’s Full Moon Party. Whether you’re into food, sailing, or dancing, Chillout Charters puts you right in the heart of the action.
Contact BVI Chillout Charters for your cruise ship excursions and transfers around the BVI and USVI.