Public Holidays in the Cayman Islands
When planning a luxury escape to Grand Cayman, timing matters, the island’s public holidays offer visitors a chance to immerse themselves in local traditions, vibrant festivals, and cultural experiences that enrich every itinerary.
Highlights for visitors:
- Experience authentic Caymanian culture through parades, regattas, and festivals.
- Plan excursions around reduced government and bank hours.
- Take advantage of quieter beaches during national observances.
- Align your stay at a beachfront villa with high-energy local celebrations.
Public Holidays in 2026
| Date | Holiday |
|---|---|
| Jan 1 | New Year's Day |
| Jan 27 (Mon) | National Heroes Day |
| Mar 5 (Wed) | Ash Wednesday |
| Apr 18 (Fri) | Good Friday |
| Apr 21 (Mon) | Easter Monday |
| Apr 30 (Wed) | General Election Day |
| May 5 (Mon) | Emancipation Day |
| May 19 (Mon) | Discovery Day |
| Jun 23 (Mon) | King Charles III’s Birthday |
| Jul 7 (Mon) | Constitution Day |
| Nov 10 (Mon) | Remembrance Day |
| Dec 25 (Thu) | Christmas Day |
| Dec 26 (Fri) | Boxing Day |
Public holidays are scattered throughout the year, each with its own unique flavor. Here’s a quick reference:
Vacation tip: For those who enjoy cultural immersion, May and July are particularly festive, while April and December offer more family-focused traditions.
Important Guidelines Re: Public Holidays
While public holidays are perfect for cultural exploration, they also come with guidelines:
- Business Hours: Banks, government offices, and many shops close on official holidays. Plan financial or legal transactions around these closures.
- Alcohol Sales: Certain holidays, particularly Good Friday, restrict alcohol sales. Upscale resorts and private villas often plan ahead for guests.
- Transportation: Taxis and buses may operate on reduced schedules. Pre-booking private transfers is recommended.
- Respect for Traditions: Some holidays, like Good Friday, are more solemn. Dress modestly if attending services and avoid loud celebrations near churches.
Pricing & Costs
Experiencing public holidays doesn’t add costs to your trip, but you’ll want to budget for experiences tied to these celebrations, these prices are subject to change, pls contact the activity prior.
- Festival Access: Most parades and cultural events are free, though premium seating or VIP passes range from US $50–$150.
- Dining & Entertainment: Restaurants may offer special holiday menus, averaging US $60–$120 per person at fine dining establishments.
- Private Excursions: Chartering a yacht for Constitution Day regattas or a private chef for Christmas dinners ranges from US $500–$2,000+, depending on services.
Set within a bird sanctuary and overlooking a serene saltwater lagoon, Ristorante Pappagallo feels like a true destination in itself. Their Sunday brunch is legendary, featuring an abundant buffet of more than 100 dishes—everything from freshly caught seafood to carving stations and signature Italian classics. The setting is both elegant and tranquil, making it a memorable way to spend a Sunday.
On the quieter East End of the island, Tukka combines Australian flair with Caribbean character. Their Sunday brunch balances laid-back charm with upscale touches, featuring a live chef taco station, perfectly made eggs benedict, and a diverse à la carte selection. With its breezy waterfront location, it’s an excellent choice for those seeking something both relaxed and refined.
Located in Camana Bay, Agua is celebrated for its fresh, inventive take on seafood and Italian cuisine. Their family-style Sunday brunch has become a favorite among locals and travelers alike, thanks to bottomless Prosecco and wine, handmade organic pasta, and farm-to-table ingredients prepared with care. It’s vibrant, social, and full of flavor.
Blue Cilantro offers one of Grand Cayman’s more intimate fine-dining brunch experiences. Served à la carte, the menu includes both classic breakfast staples and elevated dishes such as crab claws and sushi. With its refined atmosphere and attentive service, it’s an ideal spot for a sophisticated Sunday meal.
Must-Experience Traditions in Grand Cayman
- A spectacular parade held in May with vibrant costumes, steel drum music, and street parties.
- Ideal for travelers seeking energy and cultural immersion.
- Celebrated every July with traditional Caymanian catboat races, live entertainment, and seaside gatherings.
- Perfect for pairing with a luxury yacht charter.
- Though technically a festival, many businesses adjust hours during Pirates Week.
- A lively celebration with fireworks, heritage displays, and mock pirate invasions.
- Locals gather on public beaches for twilight picnics, bonfires, and community festivities.
- A one-of-a-kind Caribbean experience.
FAQ: Public Holidays in Grand Cayman
Most government offices and banks close, but many restaurants and tourist-focused businesses remain open, especially near Seven Mile Beach.
Not significantly, though flights and luxury accommodations may see higher demand during Easter, Christmas, and Carnival periods.
The Cayman Carnival Batabano in May offers the most vibrant cultural display.
Yes. Constitution Day picnics, Easter beach gatherings, and Christmas festivities are especially family-oriented.
Yes. Yachts, private chefs, and luxury tours book quickly during holiday weeks.
No, public sales are prohibited. Resorts often prepare in advance for guests.
Caymanians camp along beaches, enjoy barbecues, and spend extended weekends with family.
Yes, but with reduced availability. Arrange private transport through your hotel or villa.
Yes. Major displays occur on New Year’s Eve, Pirates Week, and Christmas season events.
Casual beachwear works for parades and picnics, but smart attire is expected at official ceremonies.
Absolutely. Guests are welcome to join community gatherings, parades, and beach picnics.
May (Batabano, Discovery Day) and December (Christmas & Boxing Day) are the most festive.
Yes — especially for trips across the North Sound. They’re scenic, affordable, and a refreshing break from road travel.
Stay at The Renaissance — for Family Fundays!
When experiencing Sundays in Grand Cayman, where you stay is just as important as how you spend your day. The Renaissance, a luxury beachfront property on Seven Mile Beach, offers the ultimate setting for relaxation and indulgence. Your perfect Sunday in Cayman begins and ends at The Renaissance.
Discover The Renaissance Villas on Seven Mile Beach, Grand Cayman. View our gallery, explore unique experiences, and learn more about the island’s best beaches and attractions