Taste the Caribbean Festival

Island flavors and rhythms take over Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden for a daylong cultural celebration. Taste the Caribbean Festival takes place Sunday, September 13, transforming the Garden’s lush landscape into a showcase of regional cuisine, music and family-friendly activities. The one-day event features live performances throughout the afternoon, culinary demonstrations and an open-air marketplace highlighting Caribbean-inspired vendors.

Live Music at the Island Vibes Stage

At the Island Vibes Stage in the Palmetum, rotating sets by a Junkanoo Band, Folklore Singers, a traditional Mento Band and a Calypso Band bring reggae, soca and island rhythms to the Garden setting. Performances are scheduled from late morning through mid-afternoon.

Demonstrations, Seminars and Activities

Guests can participate in cooking demonstrations, tropical fruit seminars with Nick Bernal of Seasons Farm Fresh and dance lessons, along with wellness and spice-focused presentations in the Garden House. A dominos tournament takes place at Cycad Vista, while lawn games such as Giant Jenga, Connect 4 and cornhole are available throughout the day. A carnival mask-making station at The Shop is included with admission.

Island Market and Tastings

The Island Market features curated food vendors including Jerk Conch, TJ Southern Kitchen, Kitchen 1333, Miss Kitty Conch and Artic Ice Cuban Delights, alongside specialty retailers such as Irie Attire and Healing Blends. Caribbean-inspired cocktails and a Tropical Tasting Tavern experience are available for purchase. Designed for all ages, the festival offers a mix of live entertainment, culinary exploration and interactive activities within Fairchild’s 83-acre tropical garden.