Every November, for almost 40 years now, the Cayman Islands have been hosting an annual Pirates week festival. The best part of these celebrations is that they come complete with a mock-pirate attack in the sea. In these mock-pirate attacks, a fleet of two old-fashioned pirate ships which are loaded with “pirates”, which make a surprise landing at the bowl-shaped harbor and the “pirates” take the governor of the Island captive.
Year after year, thousands of spectators turn up in the streets to witness this rare spectacle which is packed with some good-natured fun activities. From one year to then next, there is a little twist added to the events that spice up the tradition.
As a matter of fact, this is the only holiday tradition of its kind in the Caribbean. For this reason many families love it. The festival is celebrated all week long and it is characterized by parades, music, fireworks, street dancing, costume contests, competitions and heritage days.
List of Events
Over the years, the pirates’ week has turned out to be one of the biggest events in the Cayman Islands. It draw as many as 35,000 patrons in each year. This year’s event is scheduled to have 32 different events. Some of the events that are scheduled to take place include the following:
- Two running events,
- Two teen music nights,
- An underwater treasure hunt,
- Two swim meets,
- Kids fun day,
- A steel band competition,
- Fireworks show,
- A landing pageant,
- Five heritage days,
- Eight street dances,
- A float parade,
- Song contests, and
- A dart tournament.
Cayman Christmas
In the Grand Cayman Islands, which is predominantly inhabited by Christians, Christmas is a unique season which is packed with some traditional and holiday based events meant to keep the whole family entertained.
Some of the events that you can expect in this year’s Cayman Christmas include:
- Christmas tree lighting – this is probably Cayman’s grandest event whereby the Island is lighted with a giant Christmas tree that is decorated with sparkling lights accompanied by music.
- Parade lights – some boats and ships are decorated with lights and then sail to the harbor as they compete for a prize.
- Santa sightings – for two days, the kids are allowed to visit Santa.
- Christmas carols – Christmas isn’t Christmas at the Cayman Islands if there is no belting of Christmas carols, and they do it in two major events to help set the Christmas celebration mood. They will either have the Christmas singing tree or singing on the beach.
Accommodations
If you are a visitor to the Cayman Islands either for the pirate’s week festival or the Cayman’s Christmas celebration, you can spend your holiday at the Sunshine Suites Resort. We’re located just a stone throw away from the ocean, and offer the best boutique experience on the Grand Cayman Island.
Our resort has 131 well furnished and beautifully decorated suites. The suites are available in three main categories: one bedroom, studio and deluxe. The suites are equipped with world class amenities to make your stay convenient and memorable. They come with a fully functional kitchen, with a coffee maker, stove, microwave, cookware, and utensils.
In addition to that, you can also explore the island’s attractions, bars, restaurants, shops, and supermarket nearby. You can also enjoy world-class island meal at the Sunshine Grill. The resort is adjacent to a 18-hole golf course. You’ll also be able to access unlimited high-speed Wi-Fi, both in the resort and near the beach.
The Cayman Islands is the only country in the Caribbean that celebrates the pirate’s legends and traditional culture. The Cayman Island will be celebrating their 40th anniversary of the pirate’s legends. Throughout the week, visitors can find an opportunity to tour the Island during the festival and have a great time with family. Book your stay today.
