Guyana Festival returns after 12 years with 3-day cultural extravaganza at National Stadium

The Guyana Festival has returned after a 12-year hiatus with a three-day extravaganza at the Guyana National Stadium, Providence, East Bank Demerara (EBD), in observance of Guyana’s 60th Independence Anniversary.
The event is scheduled to take place from May 15 to 17 and is being staged by the Tourism, Industry and Commerce Ministry under the theme “Sound, Soul and Taste”, emphasising that Guyana’s greatest strength lies in its people and their unique cultural diversity.

Speaking at the press conference launch of the event, subject Minister Susan Rodrigues revealed that Guyana Festival 2026 will be a national celebration of culture, identity, and ambition, forming part of the country’s Diamond Jubilee observances to mark its 60th Independence Anniversary.
According to Rodrigues, the festival is aimed at engaging Guyanese from across all regions, as well as members of the diaspora and international visitors who will be in the country during that period.
This year’s staging, she explained, represents the revival of that concept, reimagined for a new era of national pride and cultural confidence.
“Our intention was to make this event inclusive and truly representative of our country’s diverse culture; as a result, we will have full representation from all of our ethnic groups, not just for display but also for practical demonstration. The Ministry is still, however, open to considering participation from any cultural group that might have missed the earlier call but who are interested in being a part of this event,” the Minister stated.

Patrons will have the opportunity to explore a cultural zone and culinary village, where the traditions of the country’s six peoples will be showcased through music, dance, cuisine, fashion, and storytelling. Historical displays featuring artefacts and relics will also be included to highlight Guyana’s past.
A national call has been issued inviting cultural groups and performers from across the country to participate in the festival. Over the three-day display, the public is expected to be immersed in Guyana’s heritage through vibrant cultural showcases and live demonstrations, including African head wrapping and sari and dhoti wrapping, among others.
The festival will officially open on May 15 with an opening ceremony that is free to the public. However, tickets will be required to enter the stadium after 20:00h on opening night.
Following the ceremony, patrons will be able to visit the various villages and enjoy a culinary experience dubbed “Taste of Guyana”, which will feature dishes from the country’s diverse ethnic groups. The Guyana Tourism Authority will also feature renowned chefs presenting modern interpretations of local ingredients.
On Saturday, May 16, the gates will open at 14:00h for a culture and food extravaganza showcasing a wide range of offerings.
Later that evening, at 20:00h, the festival will host a “Night of Legends”, highlighting iconic Guyanese artists and music that have contributed to the country’s cultural landscape.
In addition, on Sunday, May 17, the festival will feature a national cookout competition, where participants will prepare dishes representing the country’s various ethnic groups. At 20:00h on the same day, the “One Guyana Concert” will take place, featuring contemporary local artists and modern genres. The event will highlight the evolution of Guyanese music, showcasing both established icons and emerging talent.
She also announced the return of the drama, comedy, and poetry tents, which were key features of previous Guyana Festivals. These elements will once again showcase local creative talent rooted in Guyanese culture.

Guyana Festival Passport
The Guyana Festival Passport will cost $5000, and upon purchase, patrons will gain entry to all official festival events across the three nights.
The passport also offers special savings and discounts on tours from operators such as Touring Guyana, Air Dash, and 592 Tours, along with discounted hotel stays from participating partners.
Additionally, a grand prize draw will be held for passport holders.
The passport booklet will include redeemable coupons. For example, Aagman Restaurant will offer 10 per cent off its menu from May 15 to May 31, while King’s Jewellery World will also provide 10 per cent off jewellery purchases at all of its locations nationwide during the same period.
Amici’s Restaurant will offer dinner for three persons valued at $50,000, while Plaza Court Hotel will provide a complimentary two-night stay for two persons.
Rodrigues said the intention is to make the event inclusive and fully representative of Guyana’s diverse culture, with participation from all ethnic groups not only for display but also for practical demonstrations.
She added that the Ministry remains open to additional cultural groups that may have missed the initial call but are still interested in participating.
Among those already confirmed are representatives for the East Indian village, including Naturally Designs; participation from the Indian High Commission; Satya Khan with henna designs; and the Unified Tassa Group, which will display traditional musical instruments.
Additional participation will come from the Museum of African Heritage, the Hopetown Soirée Group, the Seaview Cultural Organisation from Region Five, and several Indigenous groups.