Top things to know
- The Bahamas Culinary & Arts Festival is marking its fifth anniversary at Baha Mar from October 21 to 25, 2026.
- Organisers expect approximately 1,700 attendees at events featuring chefs Daniel Boulud, Marcus Samuelsson, Simeon Hall Jr. and Maneet Chauhan, among others.
- Nadia Bowe of Baha Mar said the festival is a celebration of culinary excellence, art, music and Bahamian culture.
- The programme includes the FUZE Art Fair, a OneRepublic performance during A Taste of Baha Mar, four master classes and a Young Chef’s Competition for local high school and University of The Bahamas students.
The Bahamas Culinary & Arts Festival is celebrating its fifth anniversary at Baha Mar, with a programme running from October 21 to 25, 2026 that organisers say will draw approximately 1,700 attendees to a mix of dining experiences, art events and live performances.
Baha Mar said the festival will feature exclusive dining experiences led by internationally acclaimed culinary stars, including Daniel Boulud, Marcus Samuelsson, Simeon Hall Jr. and Maneet Chauhan, among others. Scotiabank is the presenting sponsor.
Nadia Bowe, Executive Director of Sales and Marketing at Baha Mar, said the event is designed to appeal to a broad audience. “What makes this festival so special is that it goes far beyond food. It’s a celebration of culinary excellence, art, music, and Bahamian culture,” she said.
Bowe added that the festival brings together international and Caribbean talent. “Whether you’re a foodie looking to learn from world-renowned chefs, an art lover exploring Caribbean talent, or simply someone looking for great entertainment and an unforgettable weekend, there’s something for you,” she said. “We bring international and Caribbean talent together, creating experiences that appeal to visitors and Bahamians alike.”
The programme extends beyond the culinary arts, with the FUZE Art Fair and live performances, including a special appearance by OneRepublic during A Taste of Baha Mar on Saturday night. Organisers said the festival also celebrates artistic expression through curated art events.
Four master classes are scheduled, featuring chefs Daniel Boulud and Amanda Freitag; baker Buddy Valastro; and vegan chefs Lisa Binns and Chris Binns, who will host a plant-powered masterclass. Baha Mar said the sessions offer guests a unique opportunity to learn from masters of the craft.
Culinary events include a Culinary Expo and FUZE Art Fair; a Tacos and Tequila Mexican Brunch; Sky-High Spirits with Mr. Mixx; Marcus’ Dayparty featuring Lisa and Chris Binns; The Butcher’s Table with Dario Cecchini; and the Art of the Plate – Fuzion Dinner Experience with Art & Live Music, described as an immersive four-course dining experience where each course is a living artwork inspired by the bold strokes of Caribbean artists. Chef Simeon’s Sunset BBQ with Mr. Mixx is also listed as a top feature.
Curated art events include a Conch Shell Acrylic Pouring Workshop, Sip N Paint with June Collie and a Figure Drawing Workshop.
The festival also includes the Young Chef’s Competition, a “Chopped”-style challenge testing the creativity and skills of aspiring chefs from local high schools and the University of The Bahamas. The competition took place at the Convention Center. Baha Mar said it exemplifies the festival’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of culinary talent, offering them a platform to shine.
As the festival continues to grow, Baha Mar said it remains a beacon of culinary excellence and cultural celebration in the Caribbean, strengthening connections across the region and introducing The Bahamas’ vibrant culture to a global audience. With a focus on sustainable practices and community support, the resort said the festival stands as a testament to the region’s rich heritage and future potential.