After the expulsion from Balliceaux and after sailing for 2 months, the Garifunas arrived in Punta Gorda, Roatan on April 12, 1797. Although they brought with them food, tools and the necessary materials to start a new life, the Garifunas could not adapt to the territory and asked the Spaniards to be moved to the coast.
This day is celebrated with great joy in the Garifuna community of Punta Gorda, a ceremony is performed emulating the arrival of the Garifuna in boats and marching to the "Punta Music" and guifity (garifuna drink).
The nine-year period (26 March, 1852 - 22 April, 1861) in which the Bay Islands were officially a British colony has created a never ending longing in some islanders for the Englishness they left behind. While every April 22 some Bay Islanders celebrate the 'Return to Honduras' day, other islanders don't celebrate at all and don't hesitate to tell about their displeasure of the 'return.'
The first 5 editions of the Caribbean Cup (2013 – 2017) also the Roatan 2017 AIDA World Championship (attended by 96 athletes from 28 countries) organized by Roatan Freediving School & Training Center , were held in a warm atmosphere, with great conditions and the organization was able to satisfy the needs of all athletes, staff, sponsors and spectators. This year we are ready for a new championship, starting on May 17th and ending the 25th, a Caribbean atmosphere that you can not miss at the West Bay beach.
Each year in September, Roatan hosts the International Fishing Tournament, the largest annual event in the community of West End. Islanders celebrates Independence Day with a great Baccanal (Carnival). The Tournament represents the first established catch and Release fishing Tournament in Honduras and is supported by The International Game Fish Association. Get ready for a great time with locals, expats in Roatan, is a great season to be in Roatan island.