Batabano Grand Cayman

Launched in 1983 by the Rotary Club of Grand Cayman, Cayman Carnival Batabano is held annually in May – a vibrant highlight in the Island’s entertainment calendar. Carnival is a premier cultural celebration in the Caribbean – a kaleidoscope of music, dance and pageantry with roots mirroring the region’s diverse history of African and religious influences. Colourful costumes reflect the vibrant landscapes, heritage and culture, with the music the very rhythm of island life. Carnival in the Cayman Islands has a distinct flavour as the islands are home to a melting pot of over 100 nationalities – one country celebrating many cultures!

With the costumes, choreography and festivities becoming more elaborate each year, Cayman Carnival Batabano is a much-anticipated event. It is a time to celebrate local surroundings, to showcase creativity, to voice social issues and, of course, to party and unite – and there’s nothing like a great party to bring people together!

2024 Batabano Schedule is as follows: 

May 3rd - Friday Night Fete: "Outta De Blue". Dance/Street Party - George Town - Cardinal Avenue & Seafarers Way. Free to Attend
May 4th - Adult Street Parade, Food Festival, and Las' Lap Street Dance. From 7M Public Beach along West Bay Road to Cardinal Avenue
May 5th - Batabano Boat Party. Hitch a party-boat ride and head out to the Sandbar.
May 6th - J'ouvert Road Parade - Secret Location Announced at 4am. 

For more Information check Cayman Batabano Carnival Facebook page. (Link below)

And here: https://www.explorecayman.com/events/cayman-carnival-batabano

Road Closure & Traffic Disruption

The RCIPS is informing the public of the following traffic advisories and road closures taking place this weekend, 3rd to 6th May, in order to facilitate events for Cayman Carnival Batabano and Emancipation Day Celebrations. 

To reduce issues with traffic flow during these events, Edward Street will be open to two-way traffic over the course of the weekend, from 3rd through 6th May.
 

Friday Night Events in Central George Town:

Friday, 3 May, 8:00PM to Saturday, 4 May, 3:00AM:

-Seafarers Way will be closed between Shedden Road and Fort Street

-Northbound traffic travelling towards Seafarers will be diverted onto Shedden Road.

-Southbound traffic travelling towards Seafarers will be diverted onto Fort Street.

Adult Batabano Parade on West Bay Road:

Saturday, 4 May, from 11:00AM to 6:00PM:

-West Bay Road will be closed between Lime Tree Bay Avenue and the Seven Mile Public Beach roundabout from 11:00AM, as parade floats set up on the southbound lane of West Bay Road. Access to public beach, along with businesses and residences in the area will be permitted.

-The parade will proceed south along West Bay Road from 1:00PM, continue south along North Church Street, and conclude along Seafarers Way. Road junctions will be closed ahead of the parade as it proceeds.

-As the procession passes closed junctions, these will be re-opened to afford motorists the use of the road to the rear of the procession.

-Seafarers Way will then be closed between Boilers Road and Fort Street, for the Saturday night events.
 

Saturday Night Events in Central George Town:

Saturday, 4 May, from 6:00PM to 12:00AM:

-Seafarers Way will be closed between Boilers Road and Fort Street

-Northbound traffic travelling towards Seafarers will be diverted onto Boilers Avenue.

-Southbound traffic travelling towards Seafarers will be diverted onto Fort Street.

-Warwick Drive, Goring Avenue, and Shedden Road will all be closed at Seafarers Way.
 

General Advisories:

Patrons attending various events in the George Town area are advised that parking along the roadway and/or causing any obstructions is not permitted. Police signage and cones will be in place to assist and guide the motoring public.

Fines via tickets will be issued to any vehicle found in contravention of the Traffic Act 2021.

The RCIPS is reminding all members of the public if you are going to drink, don’t drive.  Make a travel plan for how you will get to and from events before you leave home for the night.

The RCIPS also reminds the public of the importance of staying safe when out socialising. Stay in a group and watch out for your friends.  At the end of the night, ensure that everyone in your group has a safe way to get home.