The Bahamas hosts a special program called People-to-People Encounter, which is supposed to give visitors an authentic, informal introduction to island life. Meetings on Grand Bahama can be arranged by calling (242) 352-8044. Another fun event hosted regularly is the Rand Nature Centre’s Bird Walk, a birdwatching expedition that occurs on the first Saturday of every month at 8am.

Some of the larger resorts and restaurants on Grand Bahama Island also have nighttime entertainment shows regularly. Palm Pavilion hosts the Goombaya Show at the Princess Country Club on Wednesdays and Saturdays (tel: (242) 352-7142). Castaways Resort has the Yellow Bird Show Monday through Saturday (tel: (242) 352-6682), and Surfside Restaurant holds the Club Tropicana Show on Monday, Wednesday and Friday (tel: (242) 373-1814). Some show tickets come with dinner or drinks as well.

In the Port Lucaya Marketplace, an “Evening Under the Stars” on Friday and Saturday nights provides a chance for visitors to dance to Bahamian music played by Lil Joe Cartwright or watch Prince Limbo perform some amazing stunts.

The largest festival in Grand Bahama, however, is the Summer Junkanoo Street Festival, which lasts for nearly two months. During this time, the streets are filled with local bands, food vendors, and various activities. There is also a yearly festival at the International Bazaar, which celebrates the many cultures of the Bahamas with food, dance and music.