Homecoming is one of the many festivals celebrated on most of the inhabited islands in The Bahamas. It is the tradition of persons born in the islands, or who have island roots, returning for a reunion with family and friends that still reside there.  People come from the main land of New Providence (the capital), and in some cases the United States, to join in the festivities. Most popular of getting to the islands for homecoming is by the mail boat, locals call this an “excursion”.
 

It is an exciting time for the Family Islands and much preparation are made by the islanders to receive their guests.  The festivals are a fun-filled weekend of activities including Junkanoo rush-outs, cultural/talent shows and gospel concerts, picnic or “fish-fry” by the sea. There is always some sporting event (sometimes a regatta) or game tournament (Dominoes, Cards, Back-gammon) going on.  In the evenings, enjoy dancing to up-tempo Bahamian beats or slow it down with sweet ballads.  At homecoming you are sure to have tasty native dishes (fish and conch - stewed, steamed, fried) and sweets (potato bread, coconut tart, guava duff, and pineapple-upside-down cake are favourites).  To wash it all down there are many local drinks from “switcher” (lemonade) to bush teas, Bahamian brewed beers and local concoctions with names that put a smile on your face.

Bahamians look forward to the annual homecomings on the island of their origin and many people have adopted an island to call their home so that they too can feel a part of “going home.”

Visit our Events to get homcoming dates for the current year.