The Caribbean islands have a reputation for lively atmospheres, vibrant parties and special events. Each year there are hundreds of events - from the marking of historic days to celebrating the joys of music and dance. Many of these festivals are visited by travellers looking to experience local culture after spending a good proportion of their time relaxing in the clear turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea.

Because of the wide variety of events held each year, many of the islands produce a calendar so local and tourists can keep track of what's going on and where it's being held. These calendars are worth checking out if you are planning a trip to one of the islands, not just because the events are fun to attend, but they will also affect the availability of hotels and resorts in the area.

Probably the most famous Caribbean festivals are their celebrations of music. There are many popular types of music in the Caribbean and you can usually find a festival for your favourite. Jazz music festivals are particularly popular and they attract some of the biggest names in the Jazz music industry from around the world. Some of the year's highlights include the St Lucia Jazz Festival (May), Jamaica Jazz Festival (Jan), Caribbean Sea Jazz Festival in Aruba (Sept) and the Barbados Jazz Festival (Jan). Locals also love their reggae music and the largest festival is Reggae Summer Festival held in July each year at Montego Bay in Jamaica. Past artist have included The Jacksons, Nas, Damien Marley and Ne-Yo.

As well as music festivals, the Caribbean islands also hold a huge number of carnivals each year. Most of the islands have their own carnivals and they can last anything from one day to over a month. The carnivals themselves vary depending on what is being celebrated, but they are more likely to be street parties with parades based on religion or folklore rather than amusement rides and candy floss.

There are so many festivals and events throughout the year that you'll probably find one going on no matter when you travel. A couple of notable one to look out for in Barbados are Crop Over, which began to mark the end of sugar production season. The festival now marks an important time in the island's history and has become Barbados' answer to Mardi-Gras. Another one is the Waterman Festival, which is held over three weekends in February and is a celebration of many different types of surfing from traditional board surfing to wind and kite surfing.

For most of us, Caribbean holidays are already a special occasion and something to celebrate. To make it that little bit more special and enjoy life the way that local love to do, why not tie your trip in with a festival experience.