TRAVEL TIPS

When to Go

With the warm Gulf Stream currents swirling and balmy trade winds blowing, New Providence is an appealing year-round destination. Temperatures usually hover in the 70s and 80s and rarely get above 90°F on a midsummer's day or below 60°F on a winter's night. June to October tend to be the hottest and wettest months, although rain is often limited to periodic afternoon showers.

The best time to visit the island is December to May, especially if you're escaping the cold. Don't mind the locals, who'll likely tell you it's too chilly to hit the beach in winter, but you may want to pack a light sweater if you plan on dining outdoors. Visitors from colder climates may find the humid summer days and nights a bit stifling. Be aware that tropical depressions, tropical storms, and hurricanes are a possibility in New Providence during the Atlantic hurricane season from early June to late November. Expect to pay between 15% and 30% less off-season at most resorts.

Top Festivals

Winter

Bahamas International Film Festival. In early December, the Bahamas International Film Festival in Nassau celebrates cinema in paradise, with screenings, receptions, and movie-industry panels. Nassau, New Providence Island. www.bintlfilmfest.com.

Christmas Jollification. This ongoing arts-and-crafts fair with Bahamian Christmas crafts, food, and music is held at the Retreat in Nassau the third weekend in November. Nassau, New Providence Island. www.bnt.bs.

Junior Junkanoo Parade. The island's schoolchildren compete for bragging rights in the Junior Junkanoo Parade in mid-December. The parade starts at 6 pm and kids in preschool through high school dress up in crepe paper costumes and put on an exciting show. New Providence Island.

Junkanoo. Once Christmas dinner is over, the focus shifts to Junkanoo. The first major parade of the season starts just after midnight in downtown Nassau. There's a second parade on New Year's Day. Nassau, New Providence Island.

Spring

International Dog Show & Obedience Trials. In Nassau, watch dogs of all classes compete at the International Dog Show & Obedience Trials, held mid-March. Check www.bahamaskennelclub.org for location. New Providence Island.

Summer

Junkanoo Summer Festival. Bay Street is transformed during the annual Junkanoo Summer festival held every Saturday night 7 pm–midnight during the month of July. Watch some of the island's top Junkanoo groups and sample local foods. Nassau, New Providence Island. www.bahamas.com/summerfestivals.

Fox Hill Festival. The Nassau Fox Hill Festival in early August pays tribute to Emancipation with church services, Junkanoo parades, music, cookouts, games, and other festivities. New Providence Island.

Fall

International Cultural Weekend. Eat and drink your way around the world at the International Cultural Weekend, hosted at the Botanic Gardens the third weekend of October. New Providence Island.

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