The Batabano Street Parade in Grand Cayman is more than just a carnival—it’s a vibrant continuation of Cayman’s rich tradition of street celebrations, including the historic Jonkanoo parades. While Batabano was officially introduced by Ms. Donna Myrie in the 1980s, Caymanians have long embraced the spirit of masquerade and music, and revelry. Jonkanoo, with its colorful costumes, rhythmic drumming, and energetic dancing, was a staple of Cayman’s cultural festivities, particularly during Christmas and other major celebrations. Batabano builds on this legacy, blending Caribbean carnival traditions with Cayman’s unique heritage.
The Mas Bands and Costumes
This year’s parade, held on Saturday, May 10, 2025, kicked off at 1 PM from Seven Mile Public Beach, winding its way to George Town’s historic waterfront by early evening. The Mas Bands brought their signature flair, with Play Mas Band leading the charge with their Gelato 2025 collection, featuring costumes inspired by the charm of Italy:
• Strawberry Swirl – A bold mix of pinks and reds with a modern edge.
• Pistachio Dream – A fresh, vibrant green ensemble.
• Sunset Sorbet – A fiery blend of oranges and yellows.
• Blueberry Bliss – Cool blues with intricate detailing.
Adding to the excitement was the Foam Mas Band, which introduced a foam truck that sprayed masqueraders with white foam, cooling them down as they danced through the streets. This unique feature added an extra layer of fun to the festivities.
Floats and DJs
The parade featured elaborate floats, including the much-talked-about Foam Float, which became a crowd favorite. The streets pulsed with energy as top DJs kept the music flowing. Some of the standout DJs included:
• DJ Willy Chin Remix from Black Chiney Sound
• Sound Revolution
• DJ Joshie Vybz
Quotes from Organizers
Batabano’s organizers emphasized the importance of keeping Cayman’s traditions alive. One spokesperson shared, “Batabano is more than just a carnival—it’s a celebration of Cayman’s rich culture and history. We’re excited to bring fresh creative direction to this year’s event and make it an unforgettable experience for everyone.”
A Celebration of Caymanian Culture
Batabano pays homage to the Cayman Islands’ turtling heritage, with its name referring to the tracks left in the sand by sea turtles. Established in 1983, the carnival has grown into a multi-day festival featuring food, street dances, and vibrant celebrations. As the parade wound its way to George Town, revelers danced to the infectious beats of soca and calypso, embodying the spirit of Cayman’s historic Jonkanoo parades.
Whether you were on the road or cheering from the sidelines, Batabano 2025 was a feather-filled, foam-sprayed, fun-packed extravaganza that showcased the very best of Caymanian culture.
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