What’s on in Antigua and Barbuda in early 2015
Antigua and Barbuda’s three hundred and sixty five gorgeous white sandy beaches are what dreams are made of, and with some of the biggest and best events in the Caribbean, and a variety of activities taking place year round, this twin-island paradise becomes the perfect winter-getaway for adventure-seekers, families or holiday-makers seeking a luxury escape, this new year.
In 2015, Antigua and Barbuda, known for its family appeal, gets even more family-friendly when the AUA Tinman Rohr Triathlon returns on March 28. The largest triathlon event in Antigua, the AUA Tinman Rohr Triathlon features the half-iron, sprint and mini distances, along with races for teams, children and a 5k walk/run, bringing together a wide array of persons from international and regional athletes to fitness enthusiasts www.antiguatinmantriathlon.com . If a half-marathon is more your speed, look out for new event Run in Paradise scheduled for May 24. www.runinparadise.com
Be in Antigua on Easter Monday, to witness kites of all colour and size, as they take to the skies at awe-inspiring natural attraction Devil’s Bridge for the Antigua and Barbuda International Kite Fly, on April 6. And if you fancy a good game of cricket in the birthplace of party cricket, make your travel arrangements now. Test cricket returns to Antigua, home of Sir Vivian Richards, when the West Indies take on England from April 13 – 17 during the One Day Internationals.
The ‘Sailing Capital of the Caribbean’, Antigua hosts one of the most prestigious sailing regattas in the world, The Antigua Sailing Week from April 25 – May 1. Attracting over 100 yachts, Antigua Sailing Week consists of five days of competitive racing off the rugged south coast of Antigua plus an optional day of racing around the island. Antigua Sailing Week, is equally known for its nightly parties www.sailingweek.com. Thousands of party-goers come out to stunning English Harbour and Falmouth Harbour, for the open-air bars, laid-back rum parties and music festivals. Yachties can enjoy many other yachting events, including the Antigua Classic Yacht Regatta, The Super Yacht Challenge and the Jolly Harbour Regatta.
Sports-fishing enthusiasts and sea-food lovers will enjoy the Antigua and Barbuda Sport Fishing Tournament and Seafood Festival from May 23 – 24 2015. The popular seafood festival in the afternoon draws crowds. It’s all about trying the grilled lobster, tasty seafood chowder, crab, carpaccio, sushi, conch water and as many seafood dishes as you can manage. Held in the historic Nelson’s Dockyard, the atmosphere makes this event a perfect day out for family and friends. www.antiguabarbudasportsfishing.com
For a cultural explosion, the Caribbean’s Greatest Summer Festival, Antigua’s Carnival from July 26 – August 5th provides a colourful insight into the culture of the country. This energetic festival intensifies as Carnival Monday and Tuesday approach with party lovers embracing the lively music and costumed parades throughout the day and night. www.antiguacarnival.com
Antiguans and Barbudans love to party and with a buzzing music scene, live music bands can be found at most island bars and restaurants. Visit Nelson’s Dockyard for the Shirley Heights Sunday Sunset Barbecue Party, one of the longest running parties in the Caribbean.
A new international airport set to open in 2015, will welcome direct flights into Antigua’s V.C. Bird International Airport from major International gateways such as New York, Miami, Atlanta, Toronto, London, and Frankfurt.
Other Key Events for Early 2015:
January 29 – February 1: Super Yacht Challenge, www.thesuperyachtchallenge.com
April 15 – 20: Antigua Classic Yacht Regatta, www.antiguaclassics.com
May 1 – 3: Nautical Music Festival, www.nauticalmusicfest.com
