For an exhaustive catalog of events beyond those listed here, check http://events.frommers.com, where you'll find a searchable, up-to-the-minute roster of what's happening in cities all over the world.
January
Art@Government House. This excellent annual event, featuring displays of various art forms by local and resident artists, takes place on the front lawn of Government House. The day is full of entertainment, food, and local arts and crafts. Children can create their own unique works of art in the Kids Corner. Contact the National Gallery at tel. 345/945-8111. Last Saturday in January.
Taste of Cayman. This event, taking place on Grand Cayman, is the "eatfest" of the islands, showcasing a sampling of different cuisines from more than 40 restaurants. Live entertainment, games for kids, and tasty cooking competitions are also part of the fun. Contact the Cayman Islands Tourism Association at tel. 345/949-8522; www.tasteofcayman.org. Last Saturday in January.
February
Little Cayman Mardi Gras Festival. Everybody on this small island turns out for this festive event. Parade participants show up from Grand Cayman and Cayman Brac. The parade begins in the morning at Head O'Bay and continues to the airport. Contact Gladys Howard at tel. 345/948-1010. Saturday before Ash Wednesday.
Cayman Islands Jazz Fest. Jazz, classical concerts, educational workshops, and art exhibitions spring up across Grand Cayman, Cayman Brac, and Little Cayman in a multitude of venues. Visit www.caymanartsfestival.com for dates and details. Mid-February.
March
The Cayman Islands Orchid Show. This annual orchid show takes place at the Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park from 9am to 5pm. Stop by the park to view the exquisite displays of orchids in bloom. The Orchid Society also hosts a special orchid talk and demonstration. Contact Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park (tel. 345/947-9462; www.botanic-park.ky). Early March.
April
Easter Regatta. The Cayman Islands Sailing Club sponsors this annual event off Grand Cayman. The race attracts many boaters, who show up in catamarans ranging from 6 to 24m (20-79 ft.). Highlights include a race to the Banks, a dinghy regatta, and a sail around the island to North Sound. Contact tel. 345/947-7913 or go to www.sailing.ky for dates and specific information. Staged right before Easter.
Cayfest (The National Festival of the Arts). This 2-week event celebrates and showcases the art and culture of the Cayman Islands. The expo opens at Seven Mile Beach with a reenactment of a traditional boat launch. In George Town, you'll find open-air events with local bands, arts and crafts, native cooking, and other demonstrations of local talent, such as culinary and song competitions. For more information, contact tel. 345/949-5477. Mid-April.
Cayman Islands Million Dollar Run. Launched in 2003 on Grand Cayman, this is a show of power and speed on the water, attracting powerboat aficionados and fun seekers from around the world. The hottest, fastest, and most exotic boats gather for this race, with captains competing for US$10,000 in cash and prizes. For more information, contact tel. 345/949-8423 or visit www.mdr.ky. Third week of April.
May
Annual Batabano Carnival. This Mardi Gras-like event in George Town features popular carnival music and live soca (a type of calypso music with elements of soul, often with lyrics on topical or humorous subjects) and calypso bands. The event is enhanced by concession stands with Caymanian and Caribbean cuisine and delicacies. Call tel. 345/916-1740 or visit www.caymancarnival.com for more information. Early May.
June
Cayman Islands International Aviation Week. This annual air show, off Grand Cayman, includes aerial feats, displays, safety seminars, and a "fly-in" to Cayman Brac. It's sponsored by Cayman Caravan in Hilton Head, South Carolina. Third week of June.
Queen's Birthday. To honor the British heritage of the Cayman Islands, the Queen's birthday is celebrated every year in George Town on Grand Cayman. The streets of the capital are filled with a full military dress parade, complete with a 21-gun salute. You can attend an open house and garden reception at Government House. Dates vary; the event is not always on the Queen's actual birthday. Contact the Cayman Islands Tourism Association at tel. 345/949-8522 or visit www.cita.ky for dates and details.
November
Cayman Islands Pirates Week. This is a national festival in which cutlass-bearing pirates and sassy wenches storm George Town, capture the governor, throng the streets, and stage a costume parade. The celebration, which is held throughout the Caymans, pays tribute to the nation's past and its cultural heritage. For the exact dates, contact the Pirates Week Festival Administration (tel. 345/949-5078; www.piratesweekfestival.com). Early November.
International Scuba Diving Hall of Fame. Some of the leading scuba divers in the world show up for this annual ceremony at the Harquail Theatre on Grand Cayman. Entertainment at the event includes audiovisual presentations of scuba-diving feats, live music by local bands, and a food-and-cocktail reception. Tickets are available at the tourist office. For more information, contact tel. 345/949-8522 or click on www.scubahalloffame.com. Early November.
Remembrance Day. This is the Cayman Islands' national day of mourning and remembrance for the military heroes lost during World Wars I and II, and for all sailors and mariners lost at sea during the long maritime history of the Cayman Islands. During this national holiday, all schools, banks, and businesses are closed. In a public ceremony, wreaths are laid on two war monuments near the corner of Fort and North Church streets in downtown George Town, on Grand Cayman. Solemn music is broadcast on the radio and churches hold special ceremonies and Masses. Second Monday in November.
Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.
