If the sea had a heartbeat, it pulsed through Island Harbour on Saturday, April 4th and Sunday, April 5th 2026, as Festival Del Mar returned with its signature blend of flavour, family, and festivity. While this year’s festival unfolded a little differently, the spirit of the festival remained unwavering, drawing Anguillians and visitors alike to the shoreline for a weekend rich in culture and connection.
Island Harbour once again became the centre of it all — a lively meeting point where the island’s deep-rooted relationship with the sea was celebrated in full. And the food, as always, told its own story. From early morning, the scent of grilled seafood drifted through the village, drawing crowds eager to indulge in freshly prepared dishes. Plates were piled high with lobster, crayfish, mahi mahi, and jack fish, seasoned and cooked with the kind of care that reflects generations of culinary knowledge. Bowls of hearty local soups, fresh johnny cakes, patties and other familiar favourites offered comfort alongside the ocean breeze, while vendors kept the energy lively with their warm exchanges and quick hands.
While the waters may have been too rough for boat racing, they remained central to the weekend’s activities. The deep sea fishing tournament brought a sense of anticipation and excitement, as participants ventured out in pursuit of the best catch, embodying the island’s enduring connection to the ocean.
One of the most anticipated highlights, the Clean Ocean Swim, once again made a powerful splash. Hosted by the All Nations United Swim Club, the event welcomed participants ranging in age from eight to sixty-nine, creating a truly intergenerational celebration of community and environmental awareness. Swimmers from Anguilla were joined by participants from St. Martin/St. Maarten and neighbouring islands.
Families lined the shoreline, cheering as swimmers cut through the water in a shared display of determination and joy. More than a competition, the swim stood as a reminder of the importance of preserving the island’s marine environment. Every finisher was awarded a medal, while their names were entered into a random prize draw that added an extra layer of excitement to the day.
Prizes ranged from money and electronics to boat rides and hotel stays. NCBA, celebrating its 10th anniversary, added to the festive atmosphere by engaging patrons with trivia questions, rewarding those who tested their knowledge with additional prizes throughout the day.
Throughout the weekend, music flowed as steadily as the tide, filling the air with a mix of reggae, soca, and crowd favourites that kept feet moving and spirits high. Children danced freely, elders looked on with quiet satisfaction, and friends and families reconnected in the easy rhythm of the festival. Even without the roar of racing boats, the soundscape of Festival Del Mar remained rich and alive.
Festival Del Mar 2026 may have looked a little different, but its spirit remained unmistakably strong — a celebration not just of the sea, but of the people who call this island home.
By: Janissa Fleming
