From 1ᵉʳ to June 6, 2025, New York will host Caribbean Week and transform Times Square into a crossroads of culture, business and tourism, offering Latin American countries bordering the Caribbean Sea global exposure.
Organized by the Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO), the event will take place at the Westin New York in Times Square. Ministers of tourism, senior government officials, airlines, travel agencies, specialized media and professionals from the entire value chain are expected to attend.
Lessons from Caribbean Week 2024
Although exact figures have not been released, the latest version of the fair was distinguished by record attendance, with a notable presence of delegates from the region and the international market. Under the theme “Connecting the World, Celebrating Diversity”, this edition marked a turning point for the CTO after years of limited coordination between Caribbean destinations.
The success of the event reflected a renewed sense of unity, with countries working together to promote the region as a cohesive, diverse and competitive destination. Key sessions addressed priorities such as improving air connectivity, regional cooperation and, for the first time, the use of AI in tourism, setting the scene for this year’s agenda.
A forward-looking program
With the aim of promoting tourism that is not only sustainable, but also innovative and prepared for the future, this year’s theme is “Resilience of the Caribbean: Creating Tomorrow’s Tourism”. The 2025 program with its “Reimagine Plan” will address key issues, focusing on the Caribbean’s capacity to adapt and transform in the face of global challenges.
The week’s highlights :
● Artificial intelligence and hotel innovation sessions: exploring how AI can transform the tourism experience and improve operational efficiency in the region.
● Caribbean Air Transport Forum: Addressing route development, aviation competitiveness and strategies to improve air connectivity in the region.
● Women’s Leadership Luncheon: An awards ceremony and celebration for women leaders who have made significant contributions to the development of Caribbean tourism.
● Orange economy sessions: a forum to discuss the potential of the creative and cultural industries as a driver of economic growth and tourism in the regions.
In addition to the conferences, a series of B2B meetings will aim to attract investment and collaboration – all under a carbon-neutral charter steered by the CTO and its partners.
A celebration of Caribbean culture
“Our music, dance, art and cuisine are powerful tourism assets that satisfy travelers’ desire for authentic experiences,” said Dona Regis-Prosper, General Secretary and Executive Director of the CTO.
On June 5, 2025, the first-ever Caribbean Cultural Showcase will immerse visitors in the richness and diversity of the region’s traditions. Live performances, tastings and exhibitions will punctuate the experience, punctuated by prize draws for exclusive stays and travel offers.
Beyond the classic destinations, Caribbean Week offers Latin American countries the opportunity to strengthen their international presence, exchange best practices and forge strategic alliances. In doing so, they demonstrate that the Caribbean is more than just sun and beach: it’s a concentration of cultures and landscapes just waiting to be explored.
