The 60 islands that make up the British Virgin Islands feature an array of annual celebrations that draw visitors from around the world, especially the yachting community. Here are some of the best events and festivals to plan your next visit around.

Full Moon Parties, Trellis Bay and the Bomba Shack

Drink and dance on the beach until dawn under the shimmering light of the full moon—what can be more Caribbean than that? Monthly (adults-only) full moon parties take place at Trellis Bay on Tortola (within walking distance from the Beef Island airport) and at the legendary Bomba Shack, where the price of admission gives you a chance to try Bomba’s (possibly psychedelic) mushroom tea.

New Year’s Eve on Jost Van Dyke

Foxy’s, one of the Caribbean’s best beach bars, serves as the centerpiece for the annual New Year’s Eve party on Jost Van Dyke, known as “Old Year’s Night.” This celebration, popular with celebrities and sailing enthusiasts, features excellent food and entertainment. Ring in the new year with a Sly Fox rum toast.

Sweethearts of the Caribbean and Classic Yacht Regatta

Tortola also hosts the BVI’s annual Sweethearts of the Caribbean and Classic Yacht Regatta, a February highlight that yacht captains in the Caribbean eagerly await. The event is held at the “loyal” West End Yacht Club, and don’t miss the after-party at the Jolly Roger Restaurant, the event sponsor located in Tortola’s West End.

BVI Spring Regatta & Sailing Festival

This seven-day sailing event includes various cruises, smaller races, and the three-day main-event regatta. Sponsored by the Nanny Cay Marina on Tortola, it promises excitement and spectacle for participants and spectators alike.

Spanish Town Fisherman’s Jamboree

The BVI’s top angler event takes place in Spanish Town, the capital of Virgin Gorda, featuring fantastic food, entertainment, and fishing. It coincides with Virgin Gorda’s Easter Festival, showcasing parades, calypso music, and funji bands, making it a vibrant celebration.

BVI Music Festival

The annual highlight of the BVI music scene, the Music Festival features reggae, calypso, funji, R&B, rock, dance, and jazz groups from across the region and around the world. It occurs over a three-day weekend in May at Cane Garden Bay Beach on Tortola, showcasing musical talent like no other event.

Emancipation Festival

Also known as the August Festival or the BVI Festival, this event commemorates the BVI’s emancipation from slavery in 1834. Activities include the annual freedom march, emancipation service, calypso monarch competition, boat races, and the August Monday Parade. This cultural event is not to be missed.

HiHo Windsurfing Competition

Taking place from late June to early July, this is one of the world’s premier windsurfing competitions featuring races from Anguilla to the BVI. The races begin at the Bitter End Yacht Club on Virgin Gorda, and the Hi-Ho Pirate Party serves as an annual highlight, adding an extra layer of excitement.