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How is it already November?
I'm definitely feeling that “where has all the time gone?” feeling too, but I'm also proud that I’ve been able to deliver Curated Caribbean throughout the year. And this month is no exception! There’s still so much happening across the UK where you can soak up the Caribbean vibe.
This month includes Black Joy at the V&A, 'A Dream across the Ocean', a heart-stirring, soulful musical that takes you on an unforgettable journey from the Caribbean to 1960s London — and A night with Bob Marley at Boisdale.
Keep reading, because there’s plenty more! And in case you missed it… you can find out more about my debut book, Raffia Embroidery, which is now on pre-sale in the UK, US, and Australia.
Plus, for the early birds looking to get a head start on Christmas shopping, I’ve done a bit of legwork for you, with gift ideas inspired by the Caribbean and a sneak peek at events coming up in 2026.
Curated Caribbean Picks: Top Discoveries
Celebrate the power of Black joy through fashion, history, and culture at Black Joy Day - Marie Antoinette Style and the Afrocentric Wardrobe at the V&A, South Kensington on the 6th November.
Join curator Dr Sarah Grant for an exclusive preview of Marie Antoinette Style, showcasing 250 dazzling objects that shaped 18th-century luxury and modern design.
Professor Olivette Otele will also explore the experiences of African and Caribbean elites in France, revealing how race, power, and style intertwined in an age of revolution.
A vibrant day of learning, reflection, and celebration, presented in collaboration with the Black Gallery Visitor Network (UK).
Embark on a powerful journey of hope, love, and belonging in A Dream Across the Ocean, a new British musical that follows Winston Morgan’s voyage from the Caribbean to 1960s London in search of a better life at the Catford Broadway Theatre on the 7th & 8th November.
Separated from his family, Winston’s struggle to find purpose and connection leads to an unexpected friendship with Irishman Patrick Mulligan, revealing the strength found in shared dreams and resilience.
Featuring an uplifting original score of ska, reggae, soul, and gospel, this heartfelt production will make you laugh, cry, and leave inspired.
Get ready for Limin' Southbank's Caribbean music showdown - Trinidad vs. The Islands! Silent Soca Fete on the 22nd November.
Enjoy the electrifying energy of Soca in a silent disco experience, with two channels:
- 
Team Trinidad – Carnival classics, Groovy Soca, and anthems from the Soca capital.
 Vs
- The Islands – A vibrant mix of Soca and island rhythms from Barbados, Grenada, St. Vincent, Jamaica, and more.
Expect non-stop island vibes with signature rum cocktails, authentic Caribbean bites (including Trinidadian Doubles), and pure high-energy limin’ under the London night sky.
Limited tickets available.
 
        
        
        Jamaican-born photographer Neil Kenlock, who moved to London from Jamaica in 1963 and went on to document the heart of Britain’s Black communities through his lens is sharing his archive of photos he has taken throughout the years.
Beyond Expectations, which is open until 11th December at Swiss Cottage Gallery offers a rare glimpse into untold stories of Black British life during the 1960s and 1970s, decades that reshaped not only Camden but the cultural and political landscape of Britain.
Featuring newly digitised, never-before-seen images from the Neil Kenlock Archive, this powerful exhibition captures moments of leadership, activism, and Caribbean cultural pride that defined a generation.
 
        
        
        Celebrate the timeless music of reggae’s most known superstar, Bob Marley through The UK’s leading Bob Marley tribute show - LEGEND, at Boisdale on the 15th November.
Fronted by the remarkable Michael Anton Phillips, whose voice captures the essence of Marley himself and this acclaimed band featuring musicians who’ve performed with reggae greats like Burning Spear, Dennis Brown, and Desmond Dekker. So prepare yourself for an unforgettable night of classics including “No Woman, No Cry,” “I Shot the Sheriff,” “Is This Love,” and more.
 
        
        
        Join award-winning genealogist Adrian Stone for Tracing Your Windrush Roots, a hands-on, 3-hour workshop on 8th or 29th November. Discover your ancestors’ stories and reconnect with your African heritage.
This is the only computer-based genealogy workshop of its kind, where you’ll be actively researching, learning, and building your family tree during the session.
It all takes place at Lambeth College, Brixton Centre.
 
        
        
        Cards perfect for this time of year
The clocks going back means shorter days, so we’ve created a series of cards that capture the beauty of the Caribbean skies at night, reminding you just how stunning the Caribbean is, both day and night.
Missed these?
Curated Caribbean discoveries from the last edition that are still worth checking out!
Last month we highlighted the launch of Chef Nathaniel Mortley's new restaurant, 2210 NattyCanCook, a Pan-Caribbean restaurant which blends his Guyanese, Bajan and German heritage.
Or how about these quick bite alternatives with Riddim Snacks, an award-winning, culturally-inspired snack brand with delicious unique Caribbean inspired flavours like Cocoa Tea popcorn and Scotch Bonnet and Chedduh Plantain Chips.
Or take a wander to Boxhall City Food Hall in Liverpool Street, where you'll find Original Flava's latest residency, providing you with authentic Caribbean flavours with a twist.
Caribbean Taste of the Month
Bon Mangé
@bon.mange
If you haven’t tried Bon Mangé’s sauces yet, you’re seriously missing out. Founded by husband-and-wife duo Rochelle and Mandella, Bon Mangé is all about sharing the bold flavours of St. Lucia with the world.
Their small-batch sauces from Aunty Val’s legendary hot sauce to Mandella’s vibrant green seasoning bring the warmth and spice of the Caribbean straight to your kitchen. I've attended their supper club, and it was incredible. The food was bursting with flavour and the atmosphere was full of good vibes and St Lucian hospitality.
If you haven't done so yet, you can also catch this amazing duo on 'Be Your Own Boss' with Holly Tucker on on ITVX or ITV on the 30th November, 1.15pm to see their journey!
 
    
    
    More Discoveries
This month, I’ve come across even more incredible finds that simply had to be part of Curated Caribbean! Here are some additional gems to explore:
Roots and Play
Driven by the lack of diverse resources for children from Black and mixed backgrounds in the UK, Roots and Play founder Sanchez decided to create her own range of educational, culturally inspired toys.
These Caribbean and West African Food flash cards help children expand their vocabulary, spark cultural conversations and discover new things in a fun and engaging way.
And these cards aren’t just for children, they can also be a valuable aid for family members living with dementia.
 
        
        
        My Trini Shop
If you can't quite make it to Trinidad for a Caribbean break, then let a taste of Trinidad come to you or better still head down to Romford where you'll find My Trini Shop.
Born from a passion to create the most authentic Trinidadian cuisine right here in the UK. My Trini Shop boasts the largest assortment of Trinidadian herbs, spices, condiments, snacks and drinks under one roof and delivered straight to your door.
You can locate My Trini Shop at 5-6 Quadrant Arcade, Romford RM1 3ED or if you can't make it there you can let your fingers do the walking and shop online!
 
        
        
        Kristabel
Fashion, lifestyle, and travel creator Kristabel has the ultimate cure for winter gloom. Swap grey skies for golden sunshine and spend it in Jamaica!
Join her girls’ trip from 2nd–9th February 2026, perfectly timed to soak up island vibes and celebrate Bob Marley’s birthday in true Jamaican style.
Enjoy boutique stays in Kingston and Treasure Beach, guided adventures to Dunn’s River Falls, YS Falls, Pelican Bar, and more. Plus a creative collage class and a Kingston sightseeing tour.
Kristabel will be on hand to snap your best moments and share her insider tips along the way.
Spots are limited!
 
        
        
        Christmas Gift Ideas
As the year winds down, the anticipation for Christmas is building. To help you get a head start, I've put together a few of my Caribbean-inspired products that would make great gifts.
Plus, we've included some Caribbean inspired events for your 2026 diary to help you organise for the new year.
First up is my very own book, available now for pre-order. While the physical book won't arrive until after Christmas, in February 2026, this just lets the gift-giving joy last a little longer for the recipient.
Give the gift of a new creative skill with Raffia Embroidery - the book shares the colorful, textured craft inspired by the Caribbean!
 
        
        
        
      More Gift ideas
What's On for 2026
The Music is Black: A British Story
V&A East Museum 125 years of Black music-making in Britain. This landmark exhibition will reveal how Black British music has shaped British culture. Spanning four continents and 12 decades, this is a story of excellence and struggle, resilience and joy. Tickets available soon
Project a Black Planet The Art and Culture of Panafrica
Explore the impact of Pan-Africanism on artistic and cultural production from the 1920s to the present, through over 300 works - from paintings and installations to posters, journals, and film at the Barbican from Thu 11 Jun - Sun 6 Sep 2026.
The exhibition presents work produced across Africa, Brazil, the Caribbean, North America and Western Europe, from artists including Chris Ofili, Marlene Dumas and Kerry James Marshall.
Steel Scenes - Celebrating 75 years since the first UK steel pan performance at the Festival of Britain.
The Southbank Centre will be celebrating its 75th Anniversary next year and as part of it they will be hosting a series of culture lead events including Steel Scenes on Sat 25 & Sun 26 Jul 2026.
Steel pan groups from across the UK will come together for a weekend takeover to mark 75 years since the first UK steel pan performance, at the Festival of Britain. 
Exhibitions
Sheffield Stories: Caribbean Footsteps (Ongoing through May 2027)
Exhibition exploring the inspiring stories of Sheffield's Caribbean community.
More info
Legacies of Windrush in Cambridge (Ongoing through January 2026)
Highlights the lives and experiences of the local Caribbean Windrush community through oral histories, music, food, and community stories.
Destinations: The Holiday & Travel Show (January 29 – February 1, 2026)
The UK's biggest and longest-running consumer travel event. If travelling to the Caribbean is on your bucket list head to Olympia to learn more. 
Jennie Baptiste: Rhythm & Roots Exhibition (Open now until 4th January 2026)
Black British photographer Jennie Baptiste. Rhythm & Roots will showcase her photography of British cultural history through her documentation of fashion, music and youth culture from the 90s to today at Somerset House.
More info 
Dates for your diary
Caribbean Independence Days
- 7th February 1974 - Grenada
- 22nd February 1979 - St Lucia
- 26th May 1966 - Guyana
- 10th July 1973 - The Bahamas
- 6th August 1962 - Jamaica
- 31st August 1962 - Trinidad & Tobago
- 19th September 1983 - St Kitts & Nevis
- 21st September 1981 - Belize
- 27th October 1979 - St Vincent & The Grenadines
- 1st November 1981 - Antigua & Barbuda
- 3rd November 1978 - Dominica
- 30th November 1966 - Barbados
- Read more about Caribbean Independence days
Carnivals in the UK
- Notting Hill Carnival (London) - More info
- Leeds West Indian Carnival - More info
- St Pauls Carnival (Bristol) - More info
- Manchester Caribbean Carnival - More info
- Nottingham Carnival - More info
- Derby Caribbean Carnival - More info
- Leicester Caribbean Carnival - More info
- Luton International Carnival - More info
Share Your Caribbean Discoveries!
Get in touch!
Have you come across any inspiring stories or exciting discoveries celebrating Caribbean culture and the diaspora? Whether it’s Caribbean fashion, Caribbean food, or Caribbean-inspired art, I’d love to spotlight your discoveries. I’d especially love to hear about hidden gems or events outside of London. Email hello@tiharasmith.com to share your finds with me, and I’ll do my best to feature them in the next Curated Caribbean to share with our community!
Disclaimer: Please note that I am not affiliated with any of the brands or businesses mentioned in this blog post. For any questions about their products or services, please contact them directly.
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Related Posts
Frequently Asked Questions about Curated Caribbean and Caribbean Culture in the UK
What is Curated Caribbean?
Curated Caribbean is a monthly roundup celebrating Caribbean culture, creativity, and community - from events and exhibitions in the UK to Caribbean-inspired food, fashion, and travel discoveries.
Will there be a Curated Caribbean in December?
Unlikely as we will be taking a break, but do plan to return in the new year with more of our findings. If you have any recommendations of places you think should get a mention on Curated Caribbean, then visit our contact me page.
Who writes Curated Caribbean?
Curated Caribbean is created by me, Tihara Smith, a fashion designer, and textile artist passionate about Caribbean heritage and the Windrush generation’s influence on British culture.
How can I get featured in Curated Caribbean?
If you have a Caribbean-inspired product or event, you can email hello@tiharasmith.com with details about your product, event, or story for a chance to be featured.
How can I stay updated on new posts and events?
You can sign up for our newsletter to receive monthly updates, event highlights, and exclusive Caribbean-inspired discoveries - plus enjoy a 10% discount on your first order.
Or follow us on social media - @tiharasmith
Does Tihara Smith work with brands or collaborators?
We occasionally collaborate with like-minded people that celebrate Caribbean culture. Get in touch via hello@tiharasmith.com if you’d like to discuss opportunities.
Is Curated Caribbean affiliated with the events or businesses mentioned?
No, unless otherwise stated, we are not affiliated with the featured brands or venues. For specific product or ticket enquiries, please contact them directly.
Why is Caribbean culture important to the UK?
The Caribbean community has played a vital role in shaping British music, fashion, food, and identity, from the Windrush generation to today’s artists and entrepreneurs. Curated Caribbean celebrates that ongoing legacy.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
        
         
        
         
        
        
       
             
            