CAYFEST 2026

Theme: Global Threads
Presented by: Cayman National Cultural Foundation (CNCF)
Festival Month: March 2026

CAYFEST 2026 brings together Caymanian, Caribbean, and global artistry under the theme Global Threads, celebrating cultural stories and creative traditions that connect people across borders. This year’s programme spans performances, film, heritage demonstrations, and community activities throughout March.

CAYFEST 2026 Events

1. Opening Night – National Dance Theatre Company of Jamaica (NDTC)

Date: 6–7 March 2026 
Venue: Harquail Theatre
Details: CAYFEST 2026 Global Threads bursts onto the stage in spectacular style with the legendary National Dance Theatre Company of Jamaica (NDTC) - a cultural icon with over six decades of global acclaim - bringing their touring production 'RISE' to Cayman!

Enjoy a night at the theatre under the stars as the Cayman National Festival of the Arts opens with two unforgettable performances - same electrifying experience, two chances to witness the magic:

Friday, March 6 at 7:00 PM 
Saturday, March 7 at 7:00 PM 

Dress to impress, bring your family and friends, and prepare to be amazed.

Founded in 1962, NDTC masterfully fuses African-Caribbean traditions, Jamaican movement, and classical and contemporary ballet into powerful dance-theatre that pulses with Caribbean soul. Under the artistic direction of Marlon Simms, this opening performance is a bold celebration of regional unity, cultural pride, and artistic excellence.

Ticket Prices:

• Adults: CI $100
• Mezzanine: CI $80 (limited seating)
• Children: CI $50
• Tickets available at: The National Dance Theatre Company of Jamaica in Cayman! Opening Weekend! | TicketsPlus

Cayman National Choir & Orchestra Concert

Date: 13 March 2026
Venue: Harquail Theatre
Details: Special festival performance by the Cayman National Choir & Orchestra.

CAYFEST on Film – Screening Series

Sponsored by: DART
Dates: 14–15 March 2026
Location: Camana Bay
Admission: Free to the public
Details:

• A curated lineup of Caymanian and Caribbean films exploring themes of connection, migration, identity, and shared histories.
• Filmmakers may submit up to two films; not all will be selected, but all entries become part of CNCF’s creative archive.
• Full schedule to be released in February at cayfestonfilm.ky and on social media.

Poetry Night – Featuring Hylton Grace

Date: March 2026 (Exact date TBA)
Details: Poetry and spoken-word showcase led by Caymanian storyteller Hylton Grace.

 

Improv Workshops – Baltimore Improv Group

Dates: March 2026
Details:

• Educational improv sessions in schools.
• One adult improv theatre workshop open to the public.
• Hosted by the internationally recognised Baltimore Improv Group.

Family-Friendly Children’s Activities

Dates: Throughout March 2026
Details: Interactive cultural programmes and creative experiences designed for young families and children.


 

Red Sky at Night – CAYFEST Closing Event

Date: 21 March 2026
Venue: Harquail Grounds – Caymanian Village
Details:
The festival concludes with Red Sky at Night, transforming the grounds into an immersive Caymanian Village filled with heritage demonstrations, music, craft, and culinary traditions.

Featured activities include:

• Peppermint and swanky-making demonstrations
• Conch blowing, quadrille, maypole dancing, and folk singing
• Thatch-rope making and heritage displays
• Cultural booths featuring 100+ local artists and vendors
• All-day storytelling, handicrafts, food stalls, and live performances

CAYFEST is a celebration of Caymanian culture and global creativity, supporting artists, preserving heritage, and showcasing the Islands’ diverse creative identity. It is where tradition meets innovation and where community and culture come alive.