Barbados Tourism welcomes visitors to the Holetown Festival

Saturday, February 17, 2024

The Holetown Festival, initiated in 1977 by Alfred Pragnell, Keith Simmons, and the Trents Northern Youth Group, commemorates the 350th anniversary of Barbados’s first English settlement. Originating on the site of this initial settlement, the festival has evolved significantly over time into what is now recognized as the distinct Holetown brand. Its roots afford it a unique position as a celebration of Barbadian culture, offering a diverse entertainment lineup that includes gospel, classical music, Tuk Band, and calypso, alongside folk dancing, all showcased through free open-air concerts. Recognizing its significance, the Barbados Government has named the Holetown Festival as one of the island’s Seven Magnificent Festivals.

Festival and Processions at Holetown
The Holetown Festival Street Fair is an exceptional celebration that combines dance, theater, arts and crafts, music, and genuine Barbadian cuisine. This cultural feast is highly sought after by both residents and visitors. Wander through our artisan village to explore a wide array of local arts and crafts available for purchase. If you’re feeling peckish, indulge in some delicious local dishes at any of our food booths.

Gather your family for a delightful day filled with fun and excitement. Ensure you catch our thrilling processions. The day kicks off with “The George Ullyett Memorial Street Parade” at 11:00am, showcasing Vintage Cars, Military Units, and Local Dance Troupes.

Later, at 5:00pm, our “Bajan DOOFLICKY” procession provides an engaging experience where both locals and tourists are encouraged to partake in the festivities. This parade includes attractions such as Stilt Walkers, Mother Sally, The Green Monkeys, The Tuk Band, and The Limbo Queen, among others.

Sunday, February 11th

• 4:00 PM: Opening Celebrations at the Holetown Monument, hosted by Holetowncars.com. Features include the Town Crier Pedro Arthur, performances by Dancin’ Africa, Haynesville Youth Group, the steel orchestras from Roland Edwards Primary School and Daryll Jordan School, Frederick Smith Secondary School, iWeb, TC, and Festival Ambassador Hypasounds.
• 7:00 PM: “After Lime” event with DJ Scorpion & DJ Scotty spinning classic hits in Holetown.

Monday, February 12th

• 10:00 AM: Alfred Pragnell Memorial Talk on “Educational Reform” Part 1 by Mr. Alwyn Adams, at The Holetown Methodist Church.

Tuesday, February 13th

• 10:00 AM: Historic Holetown Bus Tour, departing from The Holetown Library. Tickets at the Festival Information Booth (Limited Seating).

Wednesday, February 14th

• 10:00 AM: Alfred Pragnell Memorial Talk on “Educational Reform” Part 2 by Mr. Alwyn Adams, at The Holetown Methodist Church.

Thursday, February 15th

• 10:00 AM: Repeat of the Historic Holetown Bus Tour. Tickets at the Festival Information Booth.
• 6:00 PM – Midnight: Liming Tent opens with DJ music.

Friday, February 16th

• 10:00 AM: Alfred Pragnell Memorial Talk on “Educational Reform” Part 3 by Mr. Alwyn Adams, at The Holetown Methodist Church.
• 6:00 PM – Midnight: DJ music continues at the Liming Tent.
• 8:00 PM: The Grand Floodlit Tattoo by The Holetown Festival and The Barbados Police Service, featuring performances and entertainment.
• 10:00 PM: After Party featuring Hypasounds, Mikey, and more.

Saturday, February 17th

• 8:00 AM: Street Fair begins.
• 11:00 AM: George Ullyett Memorial Classic Car and Street Parade Show, presented by the festival in association with medical centers and Courtesy Garage.
• 2:00 – 4:00 PM: Schools in Action on the Big Stage.
• 4:30 PM: BARBADOS TOURISM MARKETING INC event in Holetown streets, hosted by Dawn-Lisa Callender.
• 7:00 PM: Celebrity Mixologist Competition with Mount Gay Rum.
• 9:30 PM: SOCAFEST at the Holetown Monument with top artists.
• Midnight: Street Fair Stalls close.

Sunday, February 18th

• 9:00 AM: Street Fair Stalls reopen.
• 2:00 PM: Spiritual Baptists Thanksgiving Service at the Holetown Monument.
• 3:00 PM: Kidz Beach Wrestling Showcase at Surfside Beach.
• 3:15 PM: Michael Parravicino Memorial 5K Road Walk from Frederick Smith Secondary School to Holetown.
• 3:30 PM: Sagicor/HIV AIDS Commission 5K Road Run on the same route.
• 4:00 PM: Net Throwing Competition behind Zaccios Bar & Restaurant and Trents Football Masters Exhibition at the Trents Playing Field.
• 7:30 PM: Barbados Police Service Concert “The Best of the Best” at the Holetown Monument, featuring top performers.

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