These Foodie Festivals Are Still on in the Caribbean

Image: PHOTO: When in Barbados, be sure to sample the fish cakes. (photo via Pixabay/Miyagisama)
Image: PHOTO: When in Barbados, be sure to sample the fish cakes. (photo via Pixabay/Miyagisama)
Holly Johnson
by Holly Johnson
Last updated: 8:00 PM ET, Thu September 28, 2017

Fall is an especially popular time for food and drink festivals across the Caribbean, with several big ones in years past.

However, hurricanes Irma and Maria rudely interrupted what would normally be an uneventful (and beautiful) Caribbean fall, leaving nothing but devastation and heartache in their wake.

However, keep in mind that several are still planned on islands that didn't take a direct hit from either big storm:

Jamaica Food & Drink Festival

Both major hurricanes that tore through the Caribbean missed Jamaica entirely this year. So yes, you can still go to the Jamaica Food & Drink Festival, which takes place from October 21 to October 29.

Seven amazing events are planned, including Pork Palooza, a new Asian with a Twist night, a fried food and beer night and a street food marketplace. The event takes place in Kingston, and you can book a full festival package for $195.

Barbados Food and Rum Festival

This year's Barbados Food and Rum Festival takes place from November 16 through the 19. Events planned for the week include a special night out in Oistons (a famous fishing village famous for delicious fried seafood and amazing sides), a rum extravaganza, a gourmet night with Chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten and a gourmet dinner safari.

Events are priced separately but go for $90 and up. Book your tickets for the Barbados Food and Rum Festival here.

[READMORE]READ MORE: Travel to These Fun Fall Festivals[/READMORE]

Eat Local Aruba Month

For the entire month of October, Aruba hosts a special event aimed at getting locals and tourists to try all the amazing local restaurants and specialties. This year, dozens of restaurants will participate, offering discounts on plated lunches and special dinners that feature local ingredients and the finest seafood money can buy.

You don't have to sign up for this festival. Simply arrive in Aruba, then move from eatery to eatery to try the island's amazing cuisine at discounted prices. Read more about Eat Local Aruba Restaurant Month here.

Cayman Cookout

While the Cayman Cookout isn't being held this fall, you can plan on going right after the first of the year from January 10 - 14, 2018. The event is sponsored by the Ritz Carlton on beautiful Seven Mile Beach in Grand Cayman.

Event highlights include the Adventures of Eric and Tony, a staple hosted by Chef Eric Ripert and bestselling author and multiple Emmy Award-winning television food personality, Anthony Bourdain. Another night boasts hours of fun with award-winning chef Emeril Lagasse, who will cook up some amazing Cajun and Creole cuisine.

More Anthony Bourdain is also on the menu, along with a barefoot barbecue, a beach bash, a cook-off brunch, and a grand finale evening featuring an unforgettable 10-course meal.

[READMORE]READ MORE: Can't Miss Oktoberfest Celebrations[/READMORE]

Packages start at $1,169 per night minimum and include:

-Overnight accommodations at the Ritz Carlton
-Daily breakfast for two
-Tickets to Wine Fair & Auction, Barefoot BBQ and Rum & Robusto

Other events are priced separately.


For the latest travel news, updates and deals, subscribe to the daily TravelPulse newsletter.

Topics From This Article to Explore

More From TravelPulse

Related Videos

Grow Your Travel Business With Certified Courses

Travel Agent Academy
Travel Agent Academy
Majestic Resorts Specialist ProgramDiscover all-inclusive luxury at Majestic Resorts in paradise.
Travel Agent Academy
Travel Agent Academy
Los Cabos Specialist ProgramSell the magic of Los Cabos: luxury, adventure, and endless sunshine.
Travel Agent Academy
Travel Agent Academy
Allianz Specialist ProgramProtect every journey with Allianz Partners Travel Insurance.
Travel Agent Academy
Travel Agent Academy
Majestic Resorts Specialist ProgramDiscover all-inclusive luxury at Majestic Resorts in paradise.
Travel Agent Academy
Travel Agent Academy
Los Cabos Specialist ProgramSell the magic of Los Cabos: luxury, adventure, and endless sunshine.
Travel Agent Academy
Travel Agent Academy
Allianz Specialist ProgramProtect every journey with Allianz Partners Travel Insurance.

Don't Miss These Travel Agent Events and Trainings

Watch Now!
Authentically Mediterranean: Discover Celestyal’s New Western Mediterranean Itineraries & Iconic ClassicsTuesday, July 21, 2026
2:00pm Eastern
The Mediterranean is more than just a destination, it’s our home. Join Celestyal to learn why we are...
Watch Now!
July The Travel Corporation WebinarTuesday, July 21, 2026
2:00pm Eastern
Save your spot for this upcoming webinar! Details coming soon!
Upcoming Webinar
Sani/Ikos Group: Luxury Beachfront Resorts in Greece & SpainTuesday, July 28, 2026
2:00pm Eastern
Join us for an exclusive webinar introducing Sani/Ikos Group, a collection of luxury beachfront...
Watch Now!
Authentically Mediterranean: Discover Celestyal’s New Western Mediterranean Itineraries & Iconic ClassicsTuesday, July 21, 2026
2:00pm Eastern
The Mediterranean is more than just a destination, it’s our home. Join Celestyal to learn why we are...
Watch Now!
July The Travel Corporation WebinarTuesday, July 21, 2026
2:00pm Eastern
Save your spot for this upcoming webinar! Details coming soon!
Upcoming Webinar
Sani/Ikos Group: Luxury Beachfront Resorts in Greece & SpainTuesday, July 28, 2026
2:00pm Eastern
Join us for an exclusive webinar introducing Sani/Ikos Group, a collection of luxury beachfront...