This Easter, the iconic Oistins Fish Festival returns with its most ambitious celebration to date, uniting Barbadian heritage, entrepreneurship, and community spirit under the vibrant theme Catch de Culture.
Spanning 10 days from April 12 to 21, the festival promises an expanded cultural showcase and over 150 vendors, making it a must-attend event on the South Coast.
During a launch on Tuesday at the Oistins Bay Garden, festival co-chairman Israel Mallet described this year’s event as a landmark occasion for Oistins and the wider South Coast.
“We are proud to host over 150 vendors this year, a massive boost to local entrepreneurs and small businesses,” Mallet said. “I can proudly say that ‘Catch de Culture’ is more than a theme — it’s our calling. This is a festival where generations meet, talents shine, businesses thrive, and the soul of Barbados is on full display.”
The Oistins Fish Festival, now a decades-old tradition, has long been a cultural cornerstone of the Barbadian calendar. With a blend of culinary excellence, live entertainment, art, and traditional community activities, the event honours the island’s fishing industry while drawing thousands of locals and visitors alike to the South Coast entertainment hub.
Senior Manager of Communications at FLOW Barbados, Toni Yarde, underscored the significance of the company’s continued partnership with the festival.
“For decades, this festival has been more than just a showcase of Barbadian heritage; it has been a unifying force that brings together our communities, highlights the invaluable contributions of our fisherfolk, and celebrates the spirit of Oistins,” she said.
As the title sponsor, FLOW is doubling down on its commitment to cultural preservation and national development. The company plans to enhance visitor experiences through technology and connectivity — ensuring that “catching the culture” extends into digital engagement.
“Our sponsorship goes beyond financial support; it is an investment in the vibrant culture that makes Barbados unique. At FLOW, we believe in fostering community engagement, and we are excited to bring new and innovative experiences to this year’s festival.”
With over 150 confirmed vendors — including artisans, chefs, and community groups — this year’s festival is expected to deliver a significant economic boost to the southern corridor, particularly for micro and small enterprises.
Organisers say the 10-day festival will also feature a packed calendar of events, including fish boning and grease pole competitions, live performances from local artistes, heritage exhibitions, and culinary experiences that highlight Barbados’ rich seafood tradition.
Both organisers and sponsors are calling on Barbadians to embrace the festival’s message of pride and industry — core tenets of the national identity.
“Let us embrace the values of pride and industry that define us as Barbadians,” said Yarde. “We encourage everyone to come out and enjoy the festivities, support our local vendors, and of course, indulge in the finest seafood our island has to offer.” (SZB)
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