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The Official Caribbean Carnival

The Anguilla Summer Festival—otherwise known as the nation’s biggest holiday—is celebrated in commemoration of Caribbean slaves’ freedom. Though the island’s Emancipation day is traditionally celebrated on August 1st, the festival runs from the end of July through the first week of August. Tourists and locals alike are promised vibrant colors, upbeat outfits, and an atmosphere of total celebration.

In 1940 the festival activity was a boat race, but then evolved into a week-long Caribbean beach party. Activities include fireworks, parades, pageants, concerts, boat racing, and a whole boatload more. 

Activities

The opening night of the week-long party typically starts with firework displays. The fireworks are presented on various beaches along with music and other celebrations.

The “Round the Island” Boat Race is one of Anguilla’s largest presentations. Boat races are held on Anguilla’s most pristine beaches: Sandy Ground and Meads Bay. This event is for the competitive participants who aren’t afraid of a little splash!

Perhaps one of the most anticipated events of the festival is the Miss Anguilla Queen Pageant. The crown is awarded to women that symbolize strength and beauty, among other qualities. Contestants must be ages 18 to 25, unmarried, without children, and a resident of Anguilla. 

Other events like concerts, street dancing, and parades are also endeavors the party partakers can look forward to.

Though the festival was canceled in 2020 due to COVID-19, this summer, Anguilla was able to host a restricted version of the event. Next year there are plans for the festival to make its full return!

All in all, the people of the island celebrate freedom and culture in a unique way. The festival has been a tradition for decades and has no plans to let up.

Goats of Anguilla

There’s no question that the beautiful island of Anguilla is full of wildlife and animals of all kinds. While some regions are known to have deer or rodents wandering around, this destination has a different critter. One of the island haven’s most popular creatures has beards, horns, and a fuzzy coat.  

We’re talking about goats, of course! Goats practically run the island of Anguilla and have a rich history there, as well.

Once upon a time, goats indicated luxury and extravagance. The vegetation, rain forest, and climate of the island add up to the perfect environment for goats. As Anguilla’s national animal, goats are all over the island. The people of Anguilla have learned to share the space with their goatly neighbors.

Most of the nation’s goats roam free, but some of the citizens do shepherd them. There is an estimated 3,800 goats on the island. Considering that Anguilla’s total population is just over 15,000 – that’s almost a third of the human residency!

Tourists will find many goats near Scrub Island and Dog Island—close to the shore. They eat grass, hay, grain, and sometimes even tree bark. They’re usually friendly in nature but some are still considered wild animals. Though curious by nature, goats are very intelligent. They’re also inquisitive and enjoy exploring anything that they’re unfamiliar with.

Maybe it’s a peculiarity, or another reason to visit the island! Goats are the official animal of the beautiful bay. So, while you’re laying back on your hammock, or in the sand at the beach, don’t be surprised if you see this furry friend, right at your feet!