Events & Festivities on Isla Margarita: Celebrate Like a Local!

Where: All over the island – especially Porlamar & La Asunción
When: Week before Lent (dates vary)

Margarita Carnival is one of the most vibrant and joyful celebrations in Venezuela, turning the island into a non-stop party filled with rhythm, color, and excitement. 

Much like the famous carnivals of Rio de Janeiro or Trinidad, Margarita’s version carries its own unique charm with a distinctly Caribbean-Venezuelan flair. For an entire week, the streets come alive with energetic music, traditional dancing, and elaborate parades featuring floats, drummers, and dancers in dazzling costumes. 

Every town, especially Porlamar and La Asunción, hosts its own festivities, with crowds of locals and tourists gathering to celebrate. Expect spontaneous street parties, children and adults in costume, and food stalls serving local favorites like empanadas, grilled meats, and tropical drinks. 

It’s a time of joy, community, and cultural pride — a perfect moment to experience the island’s warm and welcoming spirit.

✨ Tip: Book early — Carnival week is one of the busiest times on the island!

Where: Major towns & churches (La Asunción, El Valle del Espíritu Santo)
When: March/April (Palm Sunday to Easter)

Semana Santa is one of the most important religious celebrations on Isla Margarita. The island’s towns come alive with processions, church services, and reenactments of the Passion of Christ. In El Valle del Espíritu Santo, the famous Via Crucis draws hundreds of pilgrims who walk through the streets in a moving tribute to faith and tradition.

In La Asunción, you’ll see candlelit processions, traditional music, and streets filled with families observing the sacred week. While rooted in Catholic devotion, Holy Week also marks a popular time for beach holidays, so the island feels both spiritual and festive.

Where: El Valle del Espíritu Santo
When: Every year on September 8th

The Día de la Virgen del Valle is the most important religious celebration on Isla Margarita and one of the most beloved across Eastern Venezuela. It honors Our Lady of the Valley, the island’s patron saint, who is considered the protector of fishermen and coastal communities.

Each year on September 8th, thousands of pilgrims travel to El Valle del Espíritu Santo, the spiritual heart of Margarita, to visit the beautiful Basilica of the Virgen del Valle. The streets surrounding the church are filled with flowers, candles, and heartfelt prayers as locals give thanks or ask for blessings. Many walk for hours or even days to attend the special mass and offer personal tributes.

One of the most spectacular parts of the celebration happens at sea. Fishing boats, covered in flowers and colorful decorations, parade along the coast in a nautical procession, carrying a statue of the Virgin as locals cheer from the shore. It’s a powerful mix of religion, tradition, and Caribbean beauty.

This event isn’t just spiritual — it’s festive and full of island warmth. After the ceremonies, families gather for food, music, and celebration. Local vendors line the streets with traditional dishes, souvenirs, and crafts. Even if you're not religious, the joyful energy and strong sense of community make this a must-see cultural experience.

🚤 Tip: If you're staying on the island in early September, plan to visit El Valle in the morning and enjoy the coastal boat processions in the afternoon. Be sure to arrive early — it gets crowded!

Where: Restaurants, hotels, and event venues across the island
When: Usually in August

The Festival Gastronómico de Margarita is a much-anticipated annual event that celebrates the island’s vibrant culinary culture. For several days, chefs from Margarita and across the island showcase their creativity through tasting menus, cooking demonstrations, and themed food events.

Expect a mouthwatering mix of traditional Venezuelan dishes like pabellón criollo, empanadas de cazón, and arepas, along with innovative takes on local seafood, tropical desserts, and handcrafted cocktails. Many events are hosted in upscale restaurants, while others are more relaxed, with food trucks, beachside BBQs, and live music.

The festival is perfect for food lovers who want to explore the island’s flavors, meet chefs, and discover Margarita’s evolving dining scene. It’s also a great way to support local businesses and enjoy a fun, social atmosphere.

🍤 Tip: Book ahead for tasting nights and look for events with rum or wine pairings for a full culinary experience.

Where: Open-air stages in Porlamar, Pampatar, and other towns
When: Typically in October or November

The Margarita Jazz Festival is one of the island’s most elegant and soulful events, drawing music lovers from all over Venezuela and beyond. Held annually in the cooler months of October or November, this multi-day festival features performances by both local jazz artists and international guests.

Concerts take place in a variety of settings — from cozy hotel lounges to scenic open-air stages with ocean views. The mood is relaxed yet refined, making it the perfect event for couples, music enthusiasts, or anyone looking for a unique evening out on the island.

In addition to the music, the festival often includes workshops, jam sessions, and food and drink pop-ups, giving visitors a full cultural experience. Whether you’re a serious jazz fan or just want to unwind to live music under the stars, this event offers something truly special.

🎷 Tip: Arrive early to get a good seat — and enjoy a cocktail while the sun sets over the stage.