The highly anticipated Anegada Lobster Festival returns this year, running from November 30 to December 1, 2024, with a record-breaking 13 restaurants set to participate in the culinary event. Now in its 12th year, the festival—renowned as the Caribbean’s grandest crustacean celebration—will feature the theme “Lobster, Sun, and Anegada Fun.” Visitors will have the chance to sample lobster dishes at the island’s finest restaurants while exploring its attractions and activities.

“We’re thrilled with the level of participation from businesses this year,” said Clive McCoy, Director of Tourism for the British Virgin Islands. “The Anegada Lobster Festival continues to grow, and we’re working closely with partners to ensure a smooth experience for visitors—from their arrival to the festival and beyond. Stay tuned for updates, including the release of our festival guide, which will cover everything from restaurant menus to transportation options.”

This year introduces two new features: a competition for the best lobster sampler, judged by renowned Saint Martin Executive Chef Shane Huggins, and a sampler voucher giveaway for 600 lucky attendees, providing free lobster tastings at participating restaurants. The winning chef will receive the inaugural ALFFY Award, along with bragging rights for creating the top lobster dish.

Alongside the culinary offerings, the Family Fun Day—hosted by the VI Recreation Trust—will return with waterslides, pools, and bouncy houses, while live music will greet ferry passengers at the dock. The popular Party Cycle, which tours the island with festivalgoers enjoying food, drinks, and the scenery, will also be back.

The festival kicks off on the morning of Saturday, November 30, with a warm welcome from the British Virgin Islands Tourist Board & Film Commission (BVITBFC) at Anegada’s ferry dock and airport. Participating restaurants will offer $10 lobster samplers in addition to their regular menus. Confirmed restaurants include new entrant Flamingo Pride, alongside festival favorites Lil Bit, Big Bamboo, Cow Wreck, Flash of Beauty, Lobster Trap, Wonky Dog, and more.

Festivalgoers will have numerous options for traveling to and from Anegada, including planes, passenger ferries, and car barges. Taxis will be available on the island for transport between restaurants and attractions, which include Flamingo Point Lookout, Conch Island, and the Faulkner House Museum. Activities such as snorkeling, horseback riding, and kiteboarding will also be available.

Dirk Walters, Events Manager for the BVITBFC, shared his excitement for the weekend ahead. “We expect an action-packed weekend filled with fantastic food, flowing cocktails, and beautiful weather. It’s going to be a true celebration of Anegada’s unique culture and culinary talent.”

Produced by the BVITBFC, the Anegada Lobster Festival is a key part of the BVI Food Fete, a year-round series of culinary events. The festival has grown steadily, drawing hundreds of visitors each year and contributing to increased tourism for the island of Anegada.

For more information and updates on the Anegada Lobster Festival, visit BVIFOODFETE.COM.