PR – A new festival with the potential to become a major economic driver attracting thousands of visitors to Carriacou and Petite Martinique was officially launched on Friday, 16th January, 2026.
The inaugural Lobster and Lambie Festival is an initiative of the Grenada Tourism Authority (GTA) and is designed to celebrate the culinary heritage, culture and community spirit of the sister islands.
Speaking at the official opening ceremony at the Windward Fish Market, Chief Executive Officer of the Grenada Tourism Authority, Stacey Liburd, said the vision is for the festival to evolve into a signature event that both locals and visitors can proudly claim, and one that travellers can plan their trips around in years to come.
She noted that today’s visitors are increasingly seeking experiences that are authentic, rooted in place, and that allow for meaningful connection with the destinations they visit.
“Today marks the beginning of what we believe can become a defining experience for Carriacou and Petite Martinique. At the GTA, we are very deliberate about the types of experiences we support and develop. For Carriacou and Petite Martinique, it was important for us to focus on tourism that is authentic, community-rooted and economically meaningful,” Liburd said.
Minister for Carriacou and Petite Martinique Affairs and Local Government, Hon. Tevin Andrews, welcomed the addition of the festival to the island’s growing calendar of events, noting that Carriacou continues to establish itself as a hub for festivals, including the Carriacou Regatta, Maroon Festival, Corn Festival and Parang Festival.
However, Minister Andrews expressed concern about limited room stock during peak periods and challenged accommodation providers to expand and upgrade to meet growing demand.
“Room stock is a major concern in Carriacou and Petite Martinique. Thanks to this wonderful initiative, I don’t think there are any more rooms available in Carriacou. We need to increase capacity, and I am pleased that we have been collaborating with three hotels, one of which — True Blue Bay Resort — is expected to begin construction of a thirty-plus room boutique-style hotel at L’Esterre Bay sometime in September,” he said.
Minister for Tourism, Creative Economy and Culture, Hon. Adrian Thomas, pledged the Government’s full commitment to the growth and sustainability of the festival, describing it as the beginning of a new chapter for the sister islands.
He said the Lobster and Lambie Festival has the potential to become a flagship attraction that strengthens the international profile of Carriacou and Petite Martinique. “To our visitors, this festival sends a clear and powerful message: when you come to Carriacou and Petite Martinique, you are not simply visiting beautiful islands. You are entering a living culture, tasting stories passed down through generations, and meeting people who take pride in who they are and what they offer,” Minister Thomas said.
He added that the festival aligns directly with the Government’s economic vision of developing tourism that is inclusive, locally driven and sustainable.
Marketing Director of the Grenada Tourism Authority, Tornia Charles, emphasised the initiative’s focus on tourism development and economic impact. “One of the aims of this event is to increase visitor arrivals to Carriacou and Petite Martinique. This speaks directly to the economic benefits for the islands. It also promotes culture by showcasing local traditions, culinary skills, music and heritage, while strengthening Carriacou and Petite Martinique’s brand identity as a premier seafood destination,” Charles said.
The Lobster and Lambie Festival was held over a three-day period, with one day dedicated to activities on Petite Martinique. The programme featured culinary showcases, musical entertainment, and traditional games, providing a vibrant celebration of community, culture and cuisine.
