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There are a number of events and festivals to entice clients to visit St Helena year round. Here are some of the island’s highlights
With the subtropical climate, hiking in St Helena is great year-round. The island’s volcanic origins have crafted dramatic landscapes ranging from rocky coastlines to green peaks. Each of the 21+ trails is a world of its own, where visitors can immerse themselves into nature while exploring the island’s historical landmarks.
The annual Festival of Walking starts on 27 December 2024 and runs to the end of February 2025. By joining the festival, guests gain the added bonus of hiking alongside local guides including conservationists, historians and avid walkers. Visitors can explore the island with the people that know it best as they share their knowledge and tales, enriching the hiking experience.
Join celebrations in February for the annual Whale Shark Festival, hosted by the St Helena National Trust. This community event celebrates these incredible animals while raising awareness around their conservation, as well as the Category VI Marine Protected Area that provides a safe haven for them to feed and recuperate. Whale sharks visit the island from December to April each year, with St Helena a truly special place to encounter them given it's the only known location with an equal ratio of mature males and females. This makes the island a significant focus for scientific research to investigate potential breeding behaviour too.
Swimming with whale sharks is a bucket-list adventure. St Helena's commitment to responsible and respectful interactions ensures that you can enjoy this experience with minimal disturbance to these majestic creatures.
Join the St Helena National Trust on guided tours to witness the fascinating St Helena Plover, locally known as the wirebird and the island’s last remaining endemic landbird. With a population of less than 700, the wirebird is a vulnerable species. The National Trust is dedicated to its conservation and offers tours that provide insights into these ongoing efforts.
From September to March, the wirebirds are in their nesting season. During this season, visitors can volunteer to participate in the annual census. Any assistance in collecting vital data will contribute to the wirebird's protection and its survival for generations to come.
To learn more about The Trust's conservation efforts, visit trust.org.sh.
Easter in St Helena is a time for cherished family traditions, delicious food, and fishing adventures. On Maundy Thursday, the coastline comes alive with the glow of fishermen's twinkling lights, as families gather for an evening of fishing.
Good Friday is celebrated with a feast of fresh fish caught the night before, enjoyed in the company of loved ones. The weekend often includes camping trips, providing an opportunity to connect with nature and family. St Helena's emphasis on work-life balance makes Easter a truly special time to reconnect with what matters most, for residents and visitors alike.
St Helena’s Day is celebrated on 21 May each year. The day begins with a traditional street march by uniformed organisations, from emergency services professionals to Scouts and Girl Guides. Following this, a vibrant street party fills the capital with street stalls, delicious food, live music and fun novelty sports. In the afternoon the streets come alive once more with a vibrant float and costume parade. Dancing through the capital, flamboyant costumes and decorative floats make their way to join the street party. The day bursts with culture and celebration – a perfect opportunity for any visitor looking to fully immerse themselves in St Helena’s vibrant spirit.
St Helena played a crucial role in the abolition of slavery. After the practice was outlawed, British ships intercepted slave ships en route to the Americas from Africa. The liberated slaves were brought to the island due to its strategic location in the South Atlantic. Sadly, many of these people did not survive and were buried in Rupert's Valley. During construction of the island's airport, 325 human remains were unearthed. In August 2022, a community memorial service was held to return these remains to rest in Rupert's Valley. Each August, this event commemorates and acknowledges St Helena's historical link to the slave trade. The St Helena Museum director offers guided tours that explore the history of this physical remnant of the transatlantic slave trade.
You can learn more about the reburial of the liberated Africans at trust.org.sh.
Humpback whales typically visit St Helena from September to December. As the whales migrate, they pass through St Helena's waters with their calves, providing visitors with the unique opportunity to observe their incredibly playful behaviour. St Helena's pristine waters and abundance of plankton make it an ideal feeding ground for humpback whales, ensuring unforgettable encounters for those who visit during this time.
St Helena is renowned for its strong sense of community, where everyone looks out for one another. In October, the island comes together to support the local cancer charity through various fundraising events.
Every two years, the vibrant Carnival takes centre stage in Jamestown. The streets are filled with colourful costumes, lively music, and enthusiastic dancing. By participating in or attending the festive occasion, guests can contribute to a worthy cause and experience the heart of St Helena's community spirit. The 2024 Carnival will be held on Saturday 26 October.
St Helena coffee is world-renowned. The green-tipped bourbon Arabica beans have been disease-free and free from crossbreeding since their introduction to the island in the 1700s. In November, visitors can get hands-on helping farmers handpick ripe coffee cherries, and learn about the roasting, grinding and brewing processes – a truly immersive experience. The tour is concluded by indulging in a coffee tasting, savouring the unique flavours and aromas of St Helena's locally grown coffee.
A St Helena Christmas has family and traditions at its core. Traditional family gatherings, feasts and parties highlight the island's unique blend of cultures, adding diversity to the festivities and creating a truly memorable experience.
December boasts a variety of community events. The Festival of Lights illuminates the capital with colourful displays, creating a magical atmosphere. Boxing Day sports bring locals and visitors together for friendly competitions and cheering. Vibrant parades featuring colourful costumes, music and dancing add to the festive spirit. New Year’s Eve is traditionally a street party with fireworks at the stroke of midnight to welcome in the new year.
December is one of St Helena's hottest months, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities. Visitors can enjoy swimming in the crystal-clear waters, hiking through the lush landscapes, or exploring the island's many attractions. The festive atmosphere combined with the perfect weather creates an unforgettable experience.
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