Everyone knows that North American and European countries have some of the most beautiful Easter traditions, ranging from Easter festivities to delectable food and countless street parades.
However, consider spending this Easter weekend on a Caribbean island to explore amazing tropical forests and beaches, enjoy Caribbean vibes and sunny weather, and take part in some of the most curious, bizarre and yet fun, local traditions and celebrations.
Come with an open mind and let the locals read your fortune using a ‘magic’ egg, take fish eating to a whole new level, design and fly beautifully fly a kite and be surprised by beautiful parades.
This time we chose Trinidad and Tobago, Jamaica and Barbados as some fascinating options for you to experience a unique Caribbean Easter holiday.
Jamaica
By Easter the weather is simply wonderful on the island. Jamaicans host a host of Easter weekend celebrations for you to enjoy.
Kite Festival is a grand event that takes place on Easter Monday at the Grizzly Plantation in Richmond, St. Ann on the North Shore.
If you design the most amazing or largest kite you can win great prizes. An alternative is to enjoy reggae music while participating in a sandwich eating contest.
Believe it or not, those who practice Voodoo or worship African ancestors can also win gifts. So if you’re into it, this is your chance to shine.
You may also be interested in having your fortune read to you. Here, The locals break an egg, put it on a plate and let you know what the future has in store for you. Would you dare?
Don’t forget to try hot cross buns, which are made with dried fruit. Yam wine is another local deli not to be missed!
Barbados
Easter is more than tropical beaches and Caribbean atmosphere in Barbados.
If you want to relax in the beautiful turquoise water or discover remarkable traditions, then you have come to the right place.
Like their peers in Jamaica, Barbadians will offer to tell your fortune. It’s a bit different. Here the local residents crack an egg and place it in a water container. Then they will tell you if you have a baby, a trip or even a wedding waiting for you in the near future.
In the same vein, kite flying is also a very traditional event.
Don’t forget to wear your best clothes to celebrate the Easter Bonnet Parade. Participating in this activity will renew your mind. You can find these parades all over the island.
Join the islanders “to give up something.” It could be unhealthy habits like smoking or eating fast food, or personality traits like selfishness.
Last but not least: sign up for a fishing competition during the Oistins Fish Festival. Fun guaranteed!
Trinidad and Tobago
With its Instagram-worthy white sand beaches and crystal clear waters, Trinidad and Tobago is perfect for an unforgettable Easter holiday.
These islands are home to a four-day carnival, with Caribbean music in the open air, parades and family picnics.
Among their most beloved traditions are you will find kite flying, beach parties and the preparation of delicious dishes.
Besides fish, you should also try hot cross buns. These are sweet rolls that are specially decorated for the occasion.
A strange tradition that may catch your eye is the beating of “Bobolees.” This practice used to have religious symbolism, but today it is just stuffed mannequins of controversial people. It may be unusual, but it can also be fun to have one Bobolee.