St. Maarten is set to welcome bakers, pastry chefs, and culinary enthusiasts from across the region as the 2026 Caribbean Baking Awards Festival comes to the ALEEZE Convention Center on July 25th and 26th.
Held under the theme "One Caribbean, One Stage, One Sweet Celebration," the event is expected to attract participants from more than 17 Caribbean islands and territories, showcasing the region's rich baking traditions and culinary creativity.
Founded by St. Martin native Shanda Webster-Glasgow, the festival promotes Caribbean culture, tourism, and youth development while creating opportunities for aspiring bakers through scholarships and mentorship.
Saturday's program will feature live baking competitions, tastings, cultural performances, and entertainment, while Sunday's All White Gala will recognize outstanding achievements across the Caribbean baking community.
The gala will also honor local culinary pioneers Carl Housen of Carl & Sons Unique Bakery and Antonia Canhigh of Antonia's Cake with Lifetime Achievement Awards.
Organizers say the festival continues to position St. Maarten as a growing destination for culinary tourism and regional cultural events.