Caribbean Festivals Show Island Culture

Cold winters mean many travelers head to the Caribbean for a break from the snow and ice, but freezing temperatures aren't the only reason to stop in on these islands. No matter what your interests are, you're sure to find something to do in the islands year-round, particularly when you consider the many delightful festivals that take place on the isles. Carnival Events The best-known Caribbean festival is Carnival, which is sometimes spelled "Carnaval." Many islands celebrate this annual event just before Ash Wednesday, but the dates do vary from island to island. This event is generally an island-wide party, so while some parents with younger children may not consider Carnival the most appropriate festival, those interested in experiencing a genuine slice of island culture will usually enjoy this event. These traditional Carnival dates are followed throughout much of the Dutch and French Antilles: Aruba, Bonaire, Cura