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CARIFESTA XV: Barbados on Stage to Celebrate the Soul of the Caribbean

Bridgetown, June 28, 2025.- It's under the theme « Caribbean Roots Global Excellence »CARICOM and the Executive Committee officially launched the 15th edition of the Caribbean Arts Festival (CARIFESTA XV), which will take place from 22 to 31 August 2025 in Barbados. The organizers presented the main priorities of the festival, including commitment to sustainable development.

At the launch of the Caribbean Arts Festival on June 26, at the Lloyd Erskine Sandiford Centre, the organizers highlighted the eco-responsible and inclusive approach to this edition. Initiatives announced include the use of biodegradable packaging, solar stations, green lighting, alternative transport, and waste management devices, according to an official statement from the Executive Committee.

The programme promises to be rich and varied, with the participation of artists from the Caribbean and Africa, including Ghana. It will include shows, parades, thematic concerts, cultural forums (Big Conversations), workshops for young creators, and a forum on creative industries.

©️C. Roussel

Immersive experiences such as Holy Train morning ritual and Sunday Food culinary appointment will enrich this edition. Since its creation, CARIFESTA has been a regional cultural integration area comparable to cricket, CXC or the Caribbean Single Market.

Carol Roberts, director of CARIFESTA XV, described the festival as « purer expression of our collective creativity » global. Inspired by the first Caribbean Arts Festival held in 1952 in San Juan, this biennial event continues to play a central role in promoting regional artistic expressions.

Proud to welcome CARIFESTA for the third time in its history, Barbados promises a memorable edition, up to the region's cultural and identity aspirations.

It should be noted that Haiti had welcomed in 2015, CARIFESTA XII with the holding of activities in several cities, including Port-au-Prince, Cap-Haitien, Jacmel, Les Cayes and Gonaïves.

W.E.