Colors of Long Bay - traditions, festivals, mentality and lifestyle

Long Bay is especially interesting to visit during traditional holidays and carnivals when the small beach resort turns into a huge open-air concert venue. One of the most striking and long-lasting events is the festival dedicated to the abolition of slavery. It was first held in 1834 - after the official announcement of the abolition. At that time, inhabitants of local villages just took to the streets and celebrated for several days, Over the festival's long history, it has reached a grandiose scale. Now its program lasts 12 days, the holiday covers literally all the cities and settlements of the Antigua Island.

It is noteworthy that the abolition of the slave trade took place simultaneously on the islands of Antigua and Barbuda, but the carnival on this occasion is held on the islands at different times in order to exclude rivalry. During the carnival, bright parades are organized in all major cities, including nightly ones, which are considered the most spectacular. The event is participated by the best local dancers and musicians. Besides parades, a lot of entertainments are prepared for visitors to the festival. They will be able to watch the traditional beauty contest, participate in gastronomic activities and taste the best local delicacies, as well as learn traditional dances and crafts. The annual Long Bay Carnival is considered a family holiday, therefore, there is always a lot of fun for children as well. Separate parades and interesting competitions are also organized especially for them. The beautiful carnival is usually held in the midst of summer and is always attended by many foreign guests.

The most beautiful and interesting autumn event is the Jazz Festival that is held every year in October. It is participated by performers from around the world, both big-name musicians and beginners. The music festival covers several cities of the island and a significant part of its program takes place in the immediate vicinity of Long Bay. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

For many years, the island of Antigua has been one of the world's major yachting destinations. Every year in January, a traditional regatta gathers experienced athletes and tourists from all over the world. The most luxurious vessels take part in the regatta. Guests of the festival will also find many interesting entertainments. They will be able to take exciting boat tours, learn how to manage various types of sea vessels, as well as watch the competitions of experienced sailors.

Such an eventful holiday program always attracts many foreign guests to the resort. Good-natured and friendly locals would serve as a nice bonus. They are distinguished by a very calm character, they are always well-disposed to foreign guests and ready to help and tell about the peculiarities of local culture. For many years, the islands had been ruled by the British, so they had a direct influence on the formation of the indigenous people's character. Now they are used to control their emotions, it is extremely rare to hear loud speech in public places.

Too expressive emotions are also not welcome in communication with local residents. No matter what the reason, do not show your irritation or raise your voice. Such behavior is simply incomprehensible to the indigenous people, so they can just turn away and leave the person they do not like. Such a calm nature is reflected in everyday life: people do not haste in any sort of business here. If you are served a little longer than usual in a restaurant or a store, this should be treated with understanding.

Long Bay residents are also known for their hospitality. In every small restaurant, visitors are greeted like long-awaited guests. It's not a problem for locals to have a neutral conversation with a stranger. The islanders consider their national music to be the main pride of their culture. Its traditions began to emerge on the island back in the pre-colonial era, and now national music has inherited many interesting features from the original one.

The favorite musical instruments are drums, to the incendiary rhythms of which local dance groups perform. During the annual carnival, it is always interesting to watch drumming competitions. Long Bay has become worldwide famous thanks to its wonderful beaches and sports centers. The small resort takes an active part in the cultural life of the island.