Antigua and Barbuda Art Week 2026 to Bring Folklore and Creativity to Life with Exciting New Experiences

Antigua and Barbuda's rich cultural traditions are set to take centre stage in November as the country prepares to transform galleries, studios and public spaces into a vibrant celebration of creativity, folklore and artistic expression.

The 2026 edition of Antigua and Barbuda Art Week, scheduled for November 11–18, will introduce several new experiences, including dramatic performances featuring the legendary Jam Bull, evening art tours, sustainable art activities and interactive workshops designed to connect residents and visitors with the nation's creative community.

Among the major additions are Art After Dark, an evening gallery tour experience; Out of the Krokus Bag, a cultural production exploring Caribbean stories and traditions; the Dual Thresholds public art installation; and the first Art Week studio opening by Henré Designs.

The Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority (ABTA) says the expanded programme reflects growing interest in cultural tourism and experiences that allow visitors to connect more meaningfully with the destinations they explore.

“More and more, we recognise that visitors are seeking experiences that deepen their understanding of a destination and allow them to connect with its people,” said ABTA Marketing Communications Manager Maria Blackman.

“Art Week creates that connection while also providing a platform for our artists to share their work, reach new audiences, and earn through their creativity,” she added.

The festivities will officially begin on November 11 with Symphony of Colours at Redcliffe Quay, bringing together music, cuisine, performances and visual art to launch the weeklong celebration.

Visitors arriving at V.C. Bird International Airport will also receive a creative welcome through winning entries from the Rising Stars of Art student competition and the Dual Thresholds installation, featuring artist-designed doors displayed in the arrivals hall.

Meanwhile, the ABTA Art Week exhibition will move from the airport to the new E.T. Henry Gallery at Redcliffe Quay, where works by more than 30 artists from across Antigua and Barbuda will be showcased.

One of the programme's cultural highlights will be Out of the Krokus Bag, presented by the Roots Krokus Collective at Makŏ Fine Art Gallery. The production will combine dance, poetry, exhibitions and dramatic performances, including the Jam Bull, a figure associated with local folklore.

A preview of the Jam Bull performance will be featured during the opening-night celebrations.

Fashion designer Shem Henry will open the Henré Designs studio for BE, an intimate fashion and art experience, while the Barracks Gallery will host an exhibition of works by artist Maria Ross Iztueta, presented by Stephen Murphy in collaboration with Amaya Iztueta.

At the Art and Cultural Village at Julees, multidisciplinary artist Iyaba Ibo Mandingo will lead West African mask-making and puppet workshops alongside Puppet Village.

Those interested in creating their own artwork will have several opportunities, including Bind Your Story, a personalised notebook-making workshop, and a sustainable art activity organised by Good Humans 268 using recycled and repurposed materials.

The popular Art Trail experience will also expand with the introduction of Art After Dark on November 17, combining evening visits to galleries and studios with local wine tastings.

A daytime Art & Culture bus tour is scheduled for November 13, while participating galleries and studios will welcome independent visitors throughout the week.

November 14 will feature two major attractions: Art Battle at Bay Gardens Caribbean Village, where artists will compete in a live painting showdown, and ABTA's signature Flavours & Canvas event at Dennis's Beach Bar and Restaurant, combining guided painting with tapas, cocktails and music.

Residents and visitors will also be encouraged to participate in the Art Trail challenge by exploring participating galleries and voting for their favourite artist.

Organisers are encouraging advance reservations for limited-capacity activities.

The full programme, event prices and booking information are available at visitantiguabarbuda.com/artweek, while tickets for Flavours & Canvas and the ABTA Art Trail bus tours can be purchased online through the TickeTing app.