Colors of Jolly Beach - traditions, festivals, mentality and lifestyle

Local people are very friendly and easygoing with foreigners. Merchants in local shops are usually pleased to talk to tourists. Residents of the island respect foreign tourists who are interested in their culture and traditions. Despite the fact that local people are very communicative, they are always calm when dealing with others. It is virtually impossible to see people who use emotional gestures or speak in a raised voice. Local holidays are, perhaps, the only exception. Everyone is encouraged to sing and have fun during these events.

Tourists also notice one more important feature of local people – they do not like to hurry. This is true about people of all ages. Having made an order at a restaurant, don’t be surprised if you have to wait a bit longer than usual. When dealing with business partners, foreigners should also be patient as local people never make decisions in a hurry and are very likely to postpone their tasks and procrastinate.

Of course, the national character is reflected in many areas, and the way local people dress is no exception. At the resort, and on the island in total, it is prohibited to wear camo outfits. Even kids cannot put on clothes with prints that resemble camouflage. In general, there are no certain rules about clothes in the region. When heading to an official event or a prestigious restaurant, it is better to stick to classic style. Too revealing or provocative clothes is considered tasteless. Vacationers shouldn’t also stroll on the town’s streets in a beach outfit. There are no other limitations regarding clothes in the region. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

Locals are also famous for their hospitality, so, if new acquaintances offer to visit their home and enjoy a cup of tea, it is better to accept the invitation. Relatives and close friends do not even need an invitation and can pay a visit without any official occasion. When visiting a house of new friends, don’t forget to bring small gifts for the hosts. Here it is important to mention that it is better to not gift alcohol to locals. Even though spirits and alcoholic beverages are not banned on the island, local people tend not to drink much. Alcoholic drinks are not very popular on the island. Staying outside when drunk is largely considered a violation of the public order, so the drunken person can end up with a large fine. Vacationers are recommended to treat local rules with attention and understanding. That will help to make any holiday on the island even more comfortable and pleasant.

Jolly Beach, or, as it is safe to say, a “true piece of paradise in the Caribbean”, amazes its visitors not only with incredibly attractive beaches with crystal clear water and clean sand but also with interesting local festivals. These events are a great opportunity to get acquainted with the local culture and heritage. When it comes to religious holidays, it is important to mention that Christianity is the leading religion in the region. Naturally, Holy Week, Easter, Christmas, and Trinity Sunday are the main holidays. Other celebrations are non-religious, and these are fabulous and colorful events.

Without a doubt, the 10-day long carnival, which takes place at the end of August, is one of the most popular events in Jolly Beach. Calypso music, enchanting beats by famous DJs, traditional dances, and street parties – all these entertaining activities will certainly make everyone present at the carnival happy. The fancy event has the traditional culmination, during which participants elect the queen of the carnival. Just like all events of this kind, the local carnival is an incredible chance to get acquainted with local traditions. The celebration takes place on beaches and surrounding areas. For ten days, they become true centers of festive activities and have a fantastic trouble-free atmosphere.

The end of April is the time for the most famous festival on Antigua, namely, Antigua Sailing Week. The traditional regatta and interesting performances that involve yachts take place on the island during this event. As a rule, approximately two hundred gorgeous vessels from all parts of the world participate in Antigua Sailing Week. Needless to say, the event is truly mesmerizing. The regatta takes place not far from Jolly Beach, on Dockyard Drive that is located not far from English Harbour. During the festival, visitors can attend two major events – the Lord Nelson Cup contest and the Reggae in the park mini-fest. There is one more regatta that takes place at the end of January. Tourists, who visit the resort at that time, can not only see the wonderful show but also play various beach games, such as volleyball and cricket.

At the beginning of March, as a part of the Naniki Caribbean Jazz Safari (by the way, “naniki” means “full of life” in Arawakan), the International Jazz Festival takes place on the island. It is an excellent opportunity to listen to quality music, get inspired, and gain some unforgettable memories that will warm attendees for months to come. Popular jazz and blues performers and interesting concert program will surely please all music fans. Finally, the festival takes place in a paradise-like place, so it is hard to think of anything better.

In general, there are many festivals that are in one way or another connected with yachting. There is even a special regatta for St. Valentine’s Day. Beautiful yachts and romance are, indeed, a great combination that can melt every heart. Antigua Charter Yacht Show, which is sometimes referred to as Nicholson Yacht Show, is a no less interesting event that takes place not far from Jolly Beach, in English Harbour. This is one of the oldest yacht and sailing vessel exhibitions not only in the region but also in the world.

At the end of April, Urlings Wharf becomes the venue for the largest gastronomic event in the country, namely, Seafood Festival. Foodies who want to try crabs, langoustines, lobsters, clams, and oysters are very welcome. Moreover, the festival’s visitors can participate in interesting master classes, during which they can learn about seafood cooking methods on Antigua. Energetic Calypso music, local art exhibition, and hand-made crafts fair trade make this food festival one of the most anticipated events. Seafood Festival is distinguished by a friendly, family-like atmosphere, so both locals and tourists are in love with the event. Tourists, who visit the resort at the beginning of November, can participate in one more interesting event. Sir Vivian Richards Stadium, which is located not far from Jolly Beach, hosts Independence Food Fair. This event is perfectly suitable for everyone who wants to purchase locally sourced products and try authentic local food.

A vacation at Jolly Beach can be not only relaxing but also educational. For that purpose, visit the resort during Women International Warri Championship. Warri is the national desk game that has its own peculiarities. By the way, warri means home in the local dialect. There are more festivals dedicated to this game as it is popular across Antigua and Barbuda. For example, tourists can attend National Warri Festival that takes place in October or Antiguan Open International Warri Tournament. This event also takes place in October, in Multi-Purpose Cultural Centre in the country’s capital.