From the impossibly clear blue waters to the soft sandy beaches, the Turks and Caicos is home to some of the finest nature has to offer. The friendly people of the islands and the fresh seafood plucked from the sea just off shore are a plus, too. But there’s yet another incentive that many travelers may not realize: The Turks and Caicos plays host to a variety of events every year that deserve a space in your calendar.
From cultural celebrations to exclusive fundraisers featuring some of the most delectable dishes available on the islands, here are The Strand’s picks for the top five annual Turks and Caicos events.
Valentine’s Day Cup
An event that celebrates the longtime local tradition of building model sailboats, this cultural celebration is held every year the weekend of Valentine’s Day at Bambarra Beach on the island of Middle Caicos. Participants partake in various competitions in which they race their mini boats on the shallow waters for which the picturesque Middle Caicos beach is known, while spectators enjoy live music and local food. Getting to Middle Caicos is simple, with a ferry operating daily between Providenciales and North Caicos, which connects to sister island Middle Caicos via a causeway. From North Caicos, visitors can either rent a car or arrange transport to Middle Caicos with local ferry service Caribbean Cruisin’.
Wine Cellar Golf & Fishing Tournament
After postponing the 10th annual Wine Cellar Golf & Fishing Tournament in 2021, this fundraising event made its comeback in 2022. Featuring four days of fishing, golfing, raffles and more, the tournament donates all its proceeds to various charities throughout the islands. In 2022, proceeds went to two youth-oriented organizations: the Edward C. Gartland Youth Centre and CARIFTA Games TCI. Dates have yet to be announced for 2023, but this tournament always takes place in March.
Caribbean Food & Wine Festival
Hosted by the local luxury resort Grace Bay Club, the Caribbean Food & Wine Festival is traditionally held in November every year. The multi-day event features top chefs from Turks and Caicos and from around the world, providing a unique culinary experience that includes dynamic gourmet dishes, world-class wines and tasting opportunities at some of the top restaurants and venues on the island. If you plan to attend this highly anticipated yearly event, which will be held Oct. 14-16, 2022, be sure to book early as tickets sell out fast.
An Exclusive Evening of Art
A major fundraising event for local nonprofit the Edward C. Gartland Youth Centre, the annual “Exclusive Evening of Art” showcases artwork of all different mediums from both local and international artists. Attendees have an opportunity to purchase the artwork as part of an auction event, with proceeds going back to the Youth Centre to help improve its programs and facilities. In addition to the art showcase and auction, the event includes canapes, cocktails and live music. If you’re planning to attend the next event, mark your calendars for Jan. 28, 2023!
Turks and Caicos International Film Festival
In 2019, the Turks and Caicos International Film Festival made its debut on Providenciales, putting the islands in the world spotlight for the film industry. This volunteer-driven event focuses heavily on the oceans and the environment, bringing film makers from around the world together with the local community to explore how to share stories about environmental change in the most compelling way. Spanning multiple days, the TCI Film Festival features film screenings, panel discussions, galas, and events catered toward the islands’ youth to get them involved and interested in film, storytelling and the pressing issues facing our environment. This year, the festival will be held Nov. 11-13, with tickets available for purchase online.
Planning your trip to Turks and Caicos? Come for the beaches, and stay for one of the island’s top events. Community is one of our core values at The Strand, and these annual events offer visitors a unique opportunity to meet the people who make the Turks and Caicos so special and to contribute to some of the leading causes on the islands.
Want to learn more about events and things to do in Turks and Caicos? Get in touch, and let us introduce you to the best the islands have to offer.
