01 Nov 2024
Prepare to embark on an exciting journey through time as the Cayman Islands announce the return of the highly anticipated Pirates Week Festival for 2024. This year's theme, "Setting Sail Through Time," promises to take visitors on a journey through 47 years of pirate-themed festivities across Grand Cayman, Cayman Brac and Little Cayman.
Pirates Week has been a cherished cornerstone of Cayman Islands cultural heritage since 1977. Originally launched as "Pirates Week," this festival was thoughtfully created as a unique initiative to draw visitors to the island's pristine shores.
Over the decades, it has evolved into far more than just a tourist attraction, becoming an integral part of the Cayman Islands cultural and economic fabric, preserving, and celebrating local heritage while stimulating tourism. What began as a creative tourism initiative has blossomed into an iconic celebration that captures the spirit and history of the Cayman Islands, making it an essential thread in the island's cultural tapestry.
Pirates Week 2024 promises to be an exciting celebration filled with family-friendly entertainment for all ages. The highlight of the festival will be the Grand Pirates Parade, where spectators can watch the elaborately decorated floats, energetic marching bands, and swashbuckling pirates make their way through the bustling streets of George Town.
Throughout the week, families can participate in thrilling treasure hunts and children can show off their best buccaneer attire in costume competitions. The festival will also feature interactive pirate-themed workshops and engaging street performances that bring the golden age of piracy to life. Food enthusiasts can indulge in a variety of culinary delights, from fresh local seafood to creative pirate-themed snacks, while enjoying live music performances. For those seeking more active pursuits, the festival includes sporting events such as the Pirates Week 5K Walk/Run and a refreshing sea swim.
The Hon. Dwayne Seymour, Minister for Culture, emphasised the festival's importance, saying: "Pirates Week is more than just a celebration; it is an embodiment of our local culture, bringing together the people of our islands. This year, we are taking a united and strategic approach to ensure the festival aligns with the broader goals of the government, including our commitment to protect and promote Caymanian culture, heritage and identity as outlined in Government's Broad Outcome 5."
Minister Seymour also announced the return of District Days, allowing each district to showcase its unique cultural identity within the overall tapestry of Caymanian society.
Pirates Week 2024, Setting Sail Through Time, is set to be an unforgettable Caribbean adventure, celebrating the Cayman Islands vibrant culture and the enduring fascination with the pirate culture. It's an event that brings tourists and locals together, ignites imaginations, and creates memories that last a lifetime.
The national festival will span three exciting weeks, kicking off on November 8th in Grand Cayman. Cayman Brac will commence on November 23rd followed by Little Cayman on November 30th.
ENDS
About the Cayman Islands
Located south of Miami and a short hop from Cuba, the British Overseas Territory of the Cayman Islands is a premium holiday destination where laidback discovery awaits. Ideal for adventurous travellers, nature-lovers, diving aficionados and those looking to relax and unwind on world-class beaches, there's as much thrill as there is chill. Friendly and hassle-free, with no all-inclusives, the trio of Grand Cayman, Little Cayman and Cayman Brac islands provide the perfect off-the-beaten-path experience. Voted best diving and best culinary destination in the Caribbean, and with incredible wildlife and mouth watering cuisine to boot, last year British Airways welcomed a fifth weekly direct flight from London Heathrow.
Media Contacts:
Cayman Islands Department of Tourism
