The annual South Caicos Regatta, one of Turks and Caicos Islands’ oldest festivals was commenced following a royal visit by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth the second who was then accompanied by His Royal Highness the Duke of Edinburgh Prince Phillip on February 25^th, 1966. 

After recognizing that this event should be commemorated not only because of it’s significant royal visit, the people of South Caicos, Honorable Government attendees such as the Governor of The Bahamas and Turks and Caicos Islands, His Honor the Administrator, Members of the legislative assembly, Government officers, members of the district boards, officers of the various churches and lodges, businessmen, boy scouts and girl guides, all recognized the importance of celebrating Turks and Caicos Islands culture and events important not only to South Caicos, but also to the ‘Harbonians’. 

It was recognized that Regatta would be held during the weekend of May 24^th each year since that day was and still is a public holiday. The first annual South Caicos Regatta was held in May of 1967. The cultural festival was responsible for raising the funds for this worthy cause. The main sponsors at the time were Caicos Company Ltd, Provident Ltd, and TIMCO who assisted with prizes. This event was always special due to the confluence of the locals and how they helped one another. The Regatta committee through the rescue squadron was able to help in spearheading and helping local fishermen and yachtsmen who were in trouble and distress.

There were many events that took place during this weekend of cultural rejoicing and celebration. The two main events during South Caicos Regatta were the sailboat races and the power boat races. These races would start early on Friday morning and end in the evening. Later throughout the years, many other events were introduced. Welcome party at the parade ground, basketball, table tennis tournament, Miss Regatta beauty pageant, Junkanoo parade, donkey races, tug of war, may pole, plaiting, soft ball matches, and cricket matches.

Today, the 55^th annual South Caicos Regatta will be taking place May 27^th – 28^th with many activities, events, and live performances. On May 27^th begins with the welcome party and motorcade, Miss Regatta beauty pageant, live entertainment by provision band, and live performance by international artist KB. May 28^th attendees will jump up with we funk junkanoo, participate and watch the boat races, donkey races, May pole plaiting, and activities for kids – and live entertainment by Sagittarius Band. Throughout the weekend there will be many Dj’s such as Taylo Hype, Dj Pop, Dj Success, and Dj Killa.

The return of South Caicos Regatta is one that you will not want to miss, come out and support the oldest cultural events in the Turks and Caicos Islands! Local food, sweets and delicacies, drinks and many more will be provided.