On November 15, 2025, the picturesque shores of Barbuda hosted the annual Barbuda Ocean Festival & Sustainable Fishing Tournament, a vibrant event celebrating the island’s rich maritime heritage, local culture, and commitment to marine conservation. Held at the Barbuda Fisheries Complex, the festival kicked off at noon with a lively welcome tent where attendees registered, participated in surveys, and explored an art exhibit highlighting coastal preservation efforts. Organizers, including BarbudanGO, distributed T-shirts adorned with fishing regulations, symbolizing both pride in local traditions and a collective responsibility toward sustainable practices. The day’s activities included a competitive fishing tournament, a seafood cook-off, live performances by Menace XL, and a dedicated children’s corner, offering something for everyone. This year’s festival placed a strong emphasis on sustainable fishing, showcasing Barbuda’s community-led initiatives such as species protection for parrotfish and sea turtles, a fishing registration system, and designated no-fishing zones. The event also served as a poignant tribute to fishers lost at sea in the previous year, honoring their legacy while advocating for safer and more sustainable practices. Beyond the tournament, the festival featured vendor booths, trivia games, and educational activities aimed at raising marine conservation awareness. Supported by local NGOs, the Barbuda Council, and regional marine programs, the festival is part of a broader movement toward sustainable ocean management. Key partners, including the Barbuda Fisherfolk Association, the Waitt Institute, and Pro Caribe, played a crucial role in the event’s success. Quotes from leaders like the Director of Environment for BarbudanGO and former Chairman Devon Warner of the Fisherfolk Association underscored the festival’s mission: to unite the community in protecting the ocean as a vital resource and to promote sustainable fishing practices that benefit both fishers and the environment.