I’ve done this carnival numerous times and wanted to write a Bahamas Carnival itinerary that would combine not only the fete elements but elements that are indigenous to The Bahamas. So whether you’re visiting on a cruise stop, enjoying the long Bahamian holiday weekend or a certified Carnivalist … then this is for you.
Things To Know About Bahamas Carnival
- It’s held in Nassau, New Providence, THE BAHAMAS (airport code NAS)
- Dates of travel – June 5th to June 9th (2025) however Friday to Sunday is doable once you fly in early on Friday
- June 6th is Sir Randol Fawkes Labour Day Junkanoo Parade
- June 7th is The Bahamas Carnival … more info on how to participate in costume HERE
- Weather tends to be high 70’s to 80’s (yes it’s the beginning of hurricane season)
- Currency used is 1 Bahamian Dollar to 1 United States Dollar (can be used interchangeably)
- You need a valid passport to travel to The Bahamas
Where To Stay
I’d recommend staying close to the Bay Street area that way you’re very close to beaches (walkable distance) and close to a main hub of restaurants/grocery stores/attractions etc. A nice central spot is downtown Nassau where some of the major events like the parades will be held. I’ve stayed in both British Colonial and Margaritaville which are coincidentally right next to each other and in the heart of downtown Nassau. They have beach access and are within walking distance to attractions/downtown Nassau (i.e. John Watlings Distillery, Pirates of Nassau), shopping, restaurants and more.
Comfort Suites Paradise Island which is more budget friendly, allows kids and has complimentary access to Aquaventure water park at the Atlantis resort. The food at their on-site restaurant is so delicious and authentically Bahamian.
For a luxurious oasis several minutes from downtown Nassau, try Goldwynn Resorts nestled onto Goodman’s Bay – they have an infinity pool to die for, fine dining, on -site spa and beautiful views and they pride themselves on “relaxation and recovery”.
Baha Mar Resorts has both SLS Baha Mar, Grand Hyatt Baha Mar and Rosewood. Access to any gives you complimentary access to the water park – Baha Bay. I stayed at Grand Hyatt a few years back and have visited the on-site rooftop bar, restaurants like Marcus at Baha Mar and even frequented the game room. Would go again!
Airbnb/VRBO
If you’re wanting the airbnb approach there are lots of rentals along the Bay Street strip that are close to both the stadium and downtown Nassau.
- Beach Suite Apartment/SandyPort
- Centrally Located 5 min walk to beach
- Affordable Tropical Townhouse
- One bedroom Condo at ONE Cable Beach
- Quiet Downtown Artist Loft
- Oasis Near Nassau Stadium
You can check out more short term rentals HERE.
Getting Around
Your best bet is to get a taxi service or rent a car. Taxis can be a bit pricey if traveling solo or in a small group so calling ahead to have your hotel or your Airbnb host help to arrange transportation is a GREAT idea if you decide on not driving yourself. In fact it’s much more inexpensive to rent a car. Ride sharing has been a debatable topic in The Bahamas and as of recent news it has been declared illegal.
This taxi/transportation service has been highly recommended from friends who’ve visited and also who live in The Bahamas: HENNYS TRANSPORTERS
Visitors can also take advantage of the public buses (jitney) but you would need to know the bus route and also be vigilant as you would traveling to any foreign country or new destination. The price to take a bus is between $1.50 to $2.00
Day 0: Before Your Trip
If you’re planning to make this an event filled weekend – it’s wise to plan ahead particularly with events and excursions. Any fetes (strictly parties) can be found via @bahamascarnivalguide on Instagram and ticket prices start from $30 and up.
This also goes for if you plan to “jump in da line” which is a way of saying participate in the carnival. There are multiple bands that offer costumes such as Bahamas Masqueraders, Mas Khaos and more. See the full guide for EveryThing You Need To Know About Mas In Paradise here.
You can roam internationally if you want…however it’s best to get an e-sim or a physical SIM card from the various telephone service providers. I found Airalo to just be the easiest to set up and use:
In terms of packing (whether spectating or masquerading) here’s where you can find a List of Essentials to Survive Carnival.
Day 1: Nassau, Bahamas
Once you arrive in Nassau, New Providence which is the capital of The Bahamas, get checked in to your hotel or rental. Then head over to Arawak Cay aka the Fish Fry for an authentic taste of Bahamian food at Drifters At the Fry (conch salad) or a typical Bahamian lunch at Oh Andros. If playing mas, you NEED TO reserve time for costume pick up from the band of your choice.
If you want to experience parties or events, Dutty Crew J’ouvert puts on a Trini-style moving Jouvert that starts at 9pm and ends at 3am.
Day 2: Junkanoo
So keep in mind there’s a difference between carnival and Bahamian Junkanoo. The Sir Randol Fawkes Labour Day Junkanoo Parade starts around mid-morning (9:30isham Bahamian time) and is what you would call a fanfare parade. The groups assemble in matching attire during the day time and play renditions of various songs via drums, brass instruments, cowbells and more. This is authentic Bahamian culture and something you shouldn’t miss (at least I wouldn’t miss it!).
Tips If You’re Attending Junkanoo
- Dress cool – it will be hot. Lots of sunscreen. Carry a portable fan and water. Wear comfortable shoes.
- Eat prior to the parade. Basically it’s a national holiday and many locals and tourists will be out in attendance. There should be vendors selling food at various points but the parade follows the main Bay Street and can get very busy and crowded.
- Be prepared to stand and watch as there may or may not be areas to sit. This is a more informal Junkanoo parade (without the large scale costumes).
Later on that evening, a great party option to consider especially if you like all inclusive events (food and drinks/liquor) is La Vie. A fete-styled event that combines elements of soca music, dancehall and Bahamian rake n scrape music with premium drinks and varied foods.
Day 3: Jump In Da Line
FOR MASQUERADERS:
Carnival Parade Day starts around 10am at the National stadium grounds where all the bands will line up. Once you pick up your costume your band of choice will direct you on where and when to be there.
This parade carries on throughout the day (without stops). I played with Bahamas Masqueraders in previous years and they do feed you on the road but there is no official lunch stop just FYI. One thing I do love about Bahamas Carnival is the turn onto Bay Street where the ocean breeze hits your face and you start to see the onlookers in masse. It’s basically an all day affair and the parade will end around Arawak Cay area.
FOR SPECTATORS:
Best point to line up is along the Fish Fry/Arawak Cay strip or any point on W Bay Street/Saunders Beach area past Shell gas station heading EAST. That way you can see all the bands pass by.
Day 4: To Fete or Relax?
If I decided to continue the party, I’d go to Waves Foam Fete. Its a nice cooler fete on a barge styled/cargo boat with lots of foam held by FreshEnt.
If I decided I just wanted to relax, I would sleep in til mid-morning. Head to either Cricket Club or Nesbitt’s for an authentic Bahamian breakfast and then spend my day at the beach or make a spa appointment at the adjoining hotels.
If I decided to do an excursion, I’d choose between visiting the world famous swimming pigs… well at this point they’re on several islands but the experience is still one to check off your bucket list. You could also stay in Nassau andxdo a walking food tour. Click HERE for a full guide of Nassau, Bahamas excursions (yes I know it says cruise stop but it still applies).
What do you think?