Visit our website at www.caymancarnival.com

From: [email protected]

All photos from https://www.facebook.com/batabanocayman/

The history of Cayman Carnival Batabano 

Launched in 1983 by the Rotary Club of Grand Cayman, Cayman Carnival Batabano is the national carnival of the Cayman Islands, held annually in May at th start of the turtle nesting season.

The name “Batabano” is a salute to Cayman’s turtling heritage – the word “Batabano ” is a Caymanian term meaning the tracks left in the sand by sea turtles as they crawl ashore to nest. Finding these tracks was – and still is – a reason to celebrate, thus Cayman Carnival Batabano!

Carnival itself is a joyous, cultural celebration throughout the Caribbean – a kaleidoscope of music, dance and pageantry, rooted in the region’s diverse historical influences. Colourful costumes reflect the vibrant landscapes, heritage and culture, with the music the very rhythm of island life. Carnival in the Cayman Islands has a distinct flavour as the islands are home to a melting pot of over 100 nationalities – one country celebrating many cultures!

The energy of Cayman Carnival Batabano is electrifying, with thousands of locals and visitors flocking to the streets to enjoy the signature,spirited parade, a creative panoply of costumes, choreography and floats that becomes more elaborate each year.

It is a time to celebrate local surroundings, to showcase creativity, to voice social issues and, of course, to party and unite – and there’s nothing like a great party to bring people together!

From: https://www.caymancarnival.com/aboutbatabano