Baha Mar Announces Fifth Annual Bahamas Culinary & Arts Festival 2026 Featuring Global Chefs and Caribbean Flavors
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Baha Mar, the Bahamas’ premier luxury resort destination, has announced the return of the highly anticipated Bahamas Culinary & Arts Festival, scheduled to take place from October 21 to 25, 2026. Now in its fifth year, the festival has firmly established itself as one of the Caribbean’s leading celebrations of culinary artistry, visual expression, and Bahamian culture, drawing chefs, artists, and enthusiasts from around the globe.
Over the years, the festival has grown from a boutique gathering into a multi-day cultural phenomenon, blending gourmet experiences with immersive art showcases, music, and entertainment. Visitors can expect an unparalleled lineup of culinary talent, signature dining experiences, and events designed to spotlight both internationally acclaimed chefs and Caribbean voices, further reinforcing the festival’s unique position in the region’s cultural calendar.
This year’s roster features returning favorites and new guests, including Daniel Boulud (Café Boulud The Bahamas), Marcus Samuelsson (Marcus Fish + Chop House), Scott Conant (Leola), Dario Cecchini (Carna), Simeon Hall Jr., Buddy Valastro, Amanda Freitag, Maneet Chauhan, Esther Choi, Claudette Zepeda, Alfredo Villanueva, Tristen Epps, Nina Compton, and Lisa and Chris Binns. Renowned beverage experts Marv “Mr. Mixx” Cunningham and Noah Rothbaum will also be part of the program, offering expertly crafted cocktails and mixology demonstrations.
A major highlight this year is the emphasis on Caribbean culinary voices. Simeon Hall Jr., a leading Bahamian chef, will showcase the islands’ rich gastronomy, drawing on local ingredients and traditions to provide an authentic taste of Bahamian hospitality. Nina Compton, born in Saint Lucia, is celebrated for her ability to fuse Caribbean flavors with refined French and Italian techniques, creating dishes that are at once contemporary and rooted in heritage. Tristen Epps, influenced by his Trinidadian background and international experience, will present bold Afro-Caribbean creations, while Lisa and Chris Binns, the team behind Jamaica’s acclaimed Stush in the Bush, will highlight sustainable, organic, and plant-forward dining experiences, reinforcing the festival’s commitment to environmental and culinary innovation.
“As we celebrate five years of the Bahamas Culinary & Arts Festival, it’s incredibly rewarding to see how the event has grown into a true reflection of who we are at Baha Mar—a place where global talent and local culture come together in meaningful ways,” said Graeme Davis, President of Baha Mar. “This year, we’re especially proud to deepen our focus on Caribbean culinary voices, creating space for both emerging and established chefs to share their stories alongside some of the world’s most celebrated names.”
Festival Highlights
Taste of Baha Mar | Friday, October 23
The festival’s signature walk-around tasting experience returns to the lush Jasmine Lawn, allowing guests to sample offerings from all of Baha Mar’s acclaimed restaurants. Visitors can watch chefs in live-action stations, enjoy inventive cocktails, and engage with culinary experts. The evening will culminate in a special live performance by a soon-to-be-announced artist, creating a vibrant and festive atmosphere under the Bahamian sky.
The Art of the Plate Foundation Dinner | Saturday, October 24
This immersive, multi-course dining experience merges culinary creativity with visual art. Each dish is inspired by Caribbean artistry, from the bold flavours of indigenous spices to intricate plating techniques resembling sculptures. Guests will experience a sensory journey where food is not only tasted but also admired as living artwork, highlighting the intersection of gastronomy and visual expression.
Tickets and Experiences
Tickets for the festival went on sale June 9, 2026, offering options designed for both general attendees and VIP guests.
Gold Weekend Pass
The Gold Weekend Pass provides full access to the festival’s flagship events:
- Admission to Taste of Baha Mar on October 23
- Two-day access to the FUZE Art & Culinary Expo on October 24–25
- Entry to The Art of the Plate Foundation Dinner on October 24
- A curated welcome gift bag
Platinum Weekend Pass
The Platinum Weekend Pass offers enhanced VIP access, including:
- One-hour early entry and platinum access to Taste of Baha Mar
- One-hour early access and two-day entry to the FUZE Art & Culinary Expo
- Admission to The Art of the Plate Foundation Dinner
- A premium welcome gift bag
Both ticket options provide access to an unforgettable celebration of culinary excellence, Caribbean culture, and artistic innovation, with opportunities to meet chefs, learn from experts, and enjoy performances in a luxury resort setting.
Caribbean Culture and Artistic Showcase
The festival also continues to highlight Caribbean heritage through its art programming, including the fourth annual FUZE Art Expo, which will feature a curated selection of Caribbean artists and one-of-a-kind installations. Guests can explore immersive exhibits and engage with artists in an environment that blends the visual and culinary arts, reinforcing the festival’s mission to celebrate both culture and creativity.
With its blend of global chefs, local talent, and artistic experiences, the fifth annual Bahamas Culinary & Arts Festival promises to deliver an unforgettable weekend. From exploring the vibrant culinary landscape to enjoying innovative visual art, festival-goers can immerse themselves in the very best of the Bahamas’ culinary and cultural offerings.
The Bahamas Culinary & Arts Festival 2026 at Baha Mar is more than an event—it is a celebration of flavors, artistry, and heritage, cementing its reputation as a must-visit destination on the Caribbean’s cultural calendar.
