Travel Agent breaks down Nevis’ 2017 calendar of events and tells you what market you should be pitching each event to.
Here’s a rundown of what travelers may expect during this calendar year:
For the Sports Traveler
The 16th Annual Cross Channel Swim (March)
Many visitors arrive on Nevis by a seven-minute ferry from St. Kitts across the channel to Oualie Beach. On Sunday, March 26, 2017, swimmers will be taking that same path back to St. Kitts for the annual Cross Channel Swim.
The swim distance is 2.4 miles across the “narrows” to finish at Cockleshell Beach in St. Kitts. This year will be the 16th annual Bente Weber Memorial Swim and continues to offer both a race and a challenge to open water swim enthusiasts and adventurers who will be taking on some of the best open ocean swimmers in the world.
It is open to swimmers of all skill levels. This year, the event is partnering with the Special Olympics organization of St. Kitts and Nevis to raise awareness and much needed funds
The Nevis Running Festival & Marathon (September)
With a distance to fit every athlete, the Nevis Marathon and Running Festival is a welcome addition to any active vacation itinerary. Families who are looking for a vacation where they can accomplish something active and challenge themselves will wish to consider the events, as will those who take running seriously and travel in pursuit of their sport.
Held on September 9, the competitions are as ideal for beginners as much as they are for the seasoned marathon runner. While the main event is the full marathon, a half marathon, a 10K and a 5K distances are also offered.
The Nevis Triathlon (November)
A flagship sporting event that takes place every year, the Nevis Triathlon draws competitors from all over the world. The course is as scenic as it is challenging and unique. Participants will swim in the Caribbean, cycle a course that circumvents the entire cone-shaped island, and complete the run on a course that includes road, trail and beach. It is held this year on November 11.
For the Music Lover
The Nevis Blues Festival (April)
Every April, a host of internationally known blues artists make their way to Oualie Beach for a two-night festival of blues music.
Soul blues funkster AJ Ghent, multi-instrumentalist Deanna Bogart and pianist Ben Waters are among the artists who will be playing at the Nevis Music Festival, Friday and Saturday, April 7 - 8. They will be joined by several performers who are back by popular demand, including Nevis’ own blues to gospel diva, Denise Gordon, Britain’s most award-decorated bluesman, Ian Siegel, and blues rock guitarist Simon McBride.
For the Foodie
The Nevis Mango & Food Festival (July)
In July, Nevis pays special tribute to the king of tropical fruits, the mango. If you’re a mango lover, you’ll love this culinary event.
This festival, which typically takes place in early July, brings together well known chefs from around the world who, along with Nevisian chefs, create distinctive and delicious menus. Restaurants and resorts around the island take part.
For the History Buff
Culturama (July)
Held July 26 – August 8, this premier annual celebration marks the emancipation of enslaved people in the 1830s in Nevis. It represents a 12-day festival of Nevis arts and culture, including numerous colorful costumed pageants and parades, various competitions, a lively street fair and jump-up, music, dancing and authentic Nevisian food.
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