April in Nelson’s Dockyard: A Month of Racing, Heritage and Celebration
May 7, 2026
Climate Change in a Continuous Cultural Landscape
August 17, 2026
Nelson’s Dockyard National Park came alive on Saturday, May 2nd as residents and visitors gathered for another successful staging of Dockyard Day 2026.
The annual community event transformed the UNESCO World Heritage Site into a vibrant space filled with music, games, competitions, local food and entertainment for all ages. Families, friends and visitors spent the day enjoying the festive atmosphere throughout the Dockyard, with activities taking place across multiple areas of the park.
From playground attractions and toy vendors for children to lively crowd competitions and cultural showcases, Dockyard Day once again highlighted the community spirit that continues to define the event.
Competitive Spirit on Display
One of the biggest highlights of the day was the wide range of competitions, which drew enthusiastic participation and strong crowd support throughout the event.
Five-A-Side Steelband Competition
- 1st Place: Princess Margaret Secondary School – EC$5000
- 2nd Place: All Saints Secondary School – EC$2500
- 3rd Place: Clare Hall Secondary School – EC$1000
Other Competition Winners
- Greasy Pole: Demarley Davis
- Kayak Race: Shanoy Malone
- Bun Eating Competition: Cleyon Thompson
- Adult Sack Race: Danielle Grey
- Child Sack Race: Kaedya King
Hula Hoop Competition
Children’s Division
- Chalyse Ambrose
- Marciah Roberts
- Angel Paul
- Christenique Smith
Adult Division
- Isaiah Tonge
- Ashley Bersma
Beer Drinking Competition
- Bobby
Model Boat Regatta
- Numbers
- Quarantine
- Semper Fi
Tug of War Champions
- Antigua & Barbuda Defence Force
The event also featured the popular Beating of the Retreat by the Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda, adding a ceremonial and cultural moment to the day’s celebrations.
A Community Tradition
Dockyard Day continues to serve as one of the National Parks Authority’s key community events, bringing together heritage, entertainment and local culture within Nelson’s Dockyard.
Parks Commissioner Mrs. Ann Marie Martin expressed appreciation for the strong turnout and continued support shown throughout the event.
“Dockyard Day continues to be one of our most important community events, bringing together heritage, culture, and entertainment in a way that engages both residents and visitors. We are proud to see the level of participation and support this year, and we thank everyone who contributed to its success. We can’t wait to welcome you again, bigger and better, next year.”
Beyond entertainment, the event also supports local vendors, performers and small businesses while encouraging community engagement within the National Park.
The National Parks Authority extends sincere thanks to all sponsors, volunteers, participants and patrons who helped make Dockyard Day 2026 a success and looks forward to welcoming the public again next year.
