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June marks the start of Windrush Month, with Windrush Day celebrated on 22 June, so this month’s Curated Caribbean comes with a list of events and activities to help mark Windrush Day 2026, including my June, my Raffia Embroidery Workshops on 20 and 21 June.
I’ve also gathered a few other things that caught my eye this month, including the launch of Original Flava’s Jamaican spiced pumpkin rice, and gorgeous handmade flower hair accesories by Peace of Heritage by Jaixia Blue, which are the perfect statement piece for adding a little Caribbean sunshine to your outfit.
Curated Caribbean Picks: Top Discoveries
Taste of the Caribbean Food Festival
Europe's largest food and drink festival dedicated to the Caribbean is back!
The Taste of the Caribbean festival continues to grow every year and this year is no exception. It's a great way to spend a summer day if you love Caribbean food and cuture.
Expect everything from jerk and doubles to rum cake, fresh juices, cooking demonstrations, and live music.
The Taste of the Caribbean runs until 12th September at various locations.
Image from @tasteofcaribbeanuk
Driftwood
Driftwood, a story of strength and determination set in colonial Trinidad in the 1950s, as support for political independence begins to grow.
Presented by the Royal Shakespeare Company in association with Kiln Theatre, Driftwood is a drama by Trinidadian actor and writer Martina Laird.
It's full of power, passion, family secrets, and danger.
The play explores a pivotal moment in Trinidad’s history and runs from 3 June to 4 July 2026 at Kiln Theatre, Kilburn
Image from @kilntheatre
Learn Raffia Embroidery with Tihara Smith
Come and join me for a relaxing and creative raffia embroidery workshop in London.
The next one is extra special as it takes place on Windrush weekend, so the perfect opportunity to learn more about Caribbean Craft and the Windrush Generation.
Don't worry if you're new to embroidery - this two-hour workshop is designed for beginners, and I will be guiding you through every step. All you need is the enthusiasm to try something new! It’s a lovely activity if you’re looking for something new to try in London with friends, family or even solo.
Learn the basics of raffia embroidery and create a piece of tropical raffia embroidery wall art.
Available dates:
- Saturday 20 June, 11am to 1pm
- Sunday 21 June, 10am to 12pm
- Saturday 11 July, 10am to 12pm
- Sunday 12 July, 11am to 1pm
***WINDRUSH DAY SPECIAL GROUP OFFER***
Book with a friend and pay £55 each, or book as a group of three or more and pay £50 each.
This offer is available on all June and July workshop dates, as long as you book by 30 June.
These workshops are relaxed, beginner-friendly, and a lovely way to spend time making something inspired by Caribbean craft and the Windrush Generation.
Spaces are limited to six per session.
Image from @tiharasmith
Windrush Stories Day
@bclivingmuseum
Join the Black Country Living Museum, Discovery Way, Dudley, DY1 4AL on Saturday 20 June as Windrush Stories Day returns celebrating the real voices, stories and contributions of the Windrush Generation. Be part of bringing to life the experiences of those who made a new home in the Black Country after arriving from the Caribbean and across the Commonwealth.
Take part in gospel singing in the Methodist Chapel, enjoy delicious food, try your hand at Jamaican dominoes in the Elephant and Castle pub and join the lively steel pan workshop to experience the vibrant sounds of the Caribbean.
Meet historic characters like Fitzroy, who came to help rebuild post-war Britain, and Carmen, a Jamaican mother navigating life in 1950s Dudley. Participate in Cicilyn’s mothercraft classes as she shares her experiences of training and working in the NHS as a Jamaican woman. Their stories offer a powerful glimpse into the lives of the people behind the Windrush legacy.
All activities are included with Museum admission.
What’s more… Pay for one day, get a year of free visits.
Image from bclm.com
Renell Shaw: The Windrush Suite & Echo in the Bones
@renellshaw
Join Artist-in-Residence Renell Shaw on 25 June at Kings Place for an evening that celebrates history, identity, and the power of music.
He opens the night with the live premiere of his Ivor Novello Award-winning The Windrush Suite - a heartfelt tribute to his Caribbean roots and the trailblazing Windrush generation.
Featuring a world-class live ensemble, intimate family recordings, and striking visuals, Shaw turns memory into music, bringing the Windrush story to life with depth and soul.
Image from @renellshaw
Windrush Migrations Opera in Concert – Lambeth Assembly Hall
@pegasusoperacompany
A powerful evening of opera celebrating journey, resilience and belonging. Featuring Migrations by Will Todd and Windrush Opera by Des Oliver and Edson Burton, this concert brings to life the stories, memories and voices of migration through moving music and bold storytelling. A perfect way to mark Windrush Day 2026!
Experience an unforgettable night of music and celebration on 26 June at the Lambeth Assembly Hall.
Image from @pegasusoperacompany
Windrush Summit 2026
As Britain prepares for Windrush 80 in 2028, this important national gathering will bring together councils, universities, museums, cultural organisations, government bodies, and community leaders from across the country.
The day will include:
- Special speakers
- Strategic announcements
- National partnerships
- Future planning
Join the National Windrush Museum on 26 June.
Image from @nationalwindrushmuseum
Windrush Family Day
Join the South London Gallery on the 27 June for a free community day of activities for all ages. Celebrate the 78th anniversary when HMT Empire Windrush first docked in Britain in 1948.
This joyful family day is an opportunity to come together and celebrate Windrush history and the rich culture, creativity and contributions of the Caribbean community. Spend the day making, tasting, listening and learning together through hands-on activities designed to encourage curiosity, connection and fun.
Image from southlondongallery.org
St Lucian Family Day 2026
Join the St Lucian Association London for a day of culture, community and family fun at Hopkins Field, Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park.
Taking place on the 28 June, 12pm to 6pm, the event will bring together St Lucians, families, friends and the wider community for an afternoon of celebration, connection and enjoyment.
Expect family-friendly activities, football, dominoes, music, entertainment, food, refreshments and plenty of community spirit.
Image from @slal1963
Reggae Choir
The Reggae Choir returns to Alexandra Palace Theatre on the 28 June with Roots & Riddims.
This family-friendly event brings together live choral Reggae, deep roots riddims, and sound system energy.
Image from @reggaechoir
More Ways to Celebrate Windrush Day
Celebrating Windrush Day 2026
Windrush Day is an opportunity to remember, honour and celebrate the contributions of the Windrush Generation. These individuals made significant contributions to British society including in politics, music, sport, art and healthcare. The Windrush Generation paved the way for future generations of Black British Caribbeans, who have continue to make significant contributions to British society.
There are many ways to celebrate Windrush Day, both on the day itself and throughout the year, so I have compiled a whole page with events, resources and gifts you can buy to celebrate.
Image from @tiharasmith
National Windrush Museum
If you want to learn more about the Windrush Generation then head down to The National Windrush Museum, which was founded in 2021 by Dr Les Johnson to honour the Windrush Generation’s contribution to Britain, and to create a dedicated space for Windrush stories, legacies, and contributions to be shared and preserved.
The museum is located at Royal Museums Greenwich, Romney Road, Greenwich, London, SE10 9NF
Watch the video below for a sneak peek!
The Voice Newspaper - Windrush Special
Britain’s only Black newspaper brings you this special 48-page issue celebrating the lives, legacies and lasting contributions of the Windrush generation that helped build this nation.
Inside this issue
- - Neil Kenlock’s extraordinary lens on Caribbean community life
- - Carol Wilson Frith is helping to preserve the real experiences of Caribbean migrants
- - A farewell to cherished Lessept Saunders
- - The Windrush generation didn’t just answer Britain’s call - they built its foundations
- - Young Black Britons share what the Windrush legacy means to them today
- - How Sam King’s 1967 vision became a national celebration
- - A heartfelt tribute from Yvonne Baily Smith to her Aunt Ilene
- - Dr. Wanda Wyporska on why safeguarding family stories remains central to the work of the Black Cultural Archives
- - Charlie Phillips: the photographer who witnessed Black British
- - ...and so much more.
Available in selected UK stores or order online
Image from @thevoicenewspaper
Windrush Day Gift Ideas
To mark Windrush Day, I created a small collection of products inspired by this work, including enamel pins, art prints, and greeting cards. Pieces to honour the Windrush Generation, celebrate Caribbean heritage, and keep these stories close.
Caribbean Taste of the Month
Original Flava Tilda Rice
@originalflava
I wanted to use this month’s Caribbean Taste of the Month to congratulate Original Flava on the launch of their new limited-edition Jamaican Spiced Pumpkin Rice in collaboration with Tilda.
It’s made with real Jamaican spices and ingredients, including pumpkin, scotch bonnet, coconut, pimento, thyme, and more. It’s gluten free too!
I have to confess, I haven’t tasted it yet, but I’ve been looking out for it in my local supermarket. If it’s anything like the pumpkin rice recipe in their first book, then we’re in for a treat.
Speaking of books… there’s more brilliant news. Original Flava have also launched a new cookbook, which will definitely be on my cookbook shelf when it comes out on Carnival weekend, 27 August 2026.
Congratulations, Original Flava! 🌴
Image from @originalflava
Father's Day Gift Ideas
Reminder: It's Father's Day on 21st June
Stuck on what to get the father figure in your life this Father’s Day? We have a few ideas to help you find the perfect gift for your dad, along with a greeting card with plenty of space to write a personal message.
If your dad or father figure loves the Caribbean, this is the perfect place to find a gift he’ll love.
Missed these?
Curated Caribbean discoveries from the last edition that are still worth checking out!
Last month we highlighted even more events and activites related to the Caribbean, including Ain Bailey: The Jamaica Project, an exhibition of London-based composer, artist and DJ Ain Bailey, where you can see her ongoing trilogy of films and compositions rooted in her biography and relationship to Jamaica. It ends on 14 June.
We also told you about The Caribbean Studies Podcast, the first podcast from the Society for Caribbean Studies. Hosted by Dr Leighan Renaud, Dr Adom Philogene-Heron, and Andel Andrew, the series brings together scholars, practitioners, and activists from across the Caribbean and its diaspora.
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:
IAMKRISTABEL
If that Caribbean or more specifically Jamaica has been on your bucket list for a while, but you haven’t made it there yet, found anyone to go with, or know where to stay or what to do, Kristabel’s open invite to Jamaica might be the solution you’ve been looking for.
Kristabel is planning a group trip to Jamaica with Bloom in Jamaica, a women-only group retreat taking place in February 2027.
They’re hoping to include accommodation in Kingston and a beach destination, transport to activities, a sightseeing tour, a trip to Dunn’s River Falls, a fitness class, and a few other surprises.
Image from @iamkristabel
PEACE OF HERITAGE
Last year, I had the opportunity to work with the very talented Jaixia Blue, who creates beautiful wearable art inspired by her mixed British and Jamaican heritage.
Those of you who follow me, or have attended one of my raffia embroidery workshops, will know that I love hibiscus flowers, so it will come as no surprise that I absolutely love Jaixia’s stunning hibiscus hair accessories.
They are the perfect statement piece for adding a little Caribbean sunshine to your outfit. Her work is colourful, joyful, and full of personality.
Take a look at Jaixia Blue’s beautiful work.
Image from @peaceofheritage
STEVE REEVES PHOTOGRAPHER
Steve Reeves is a London-based documentary and environmental portrait photographer whose work celebrates community, connection, and the belief that everyone has a story worth sharing.
He has captured images of people from all walks of life, including some amazing portraits of people from the Windrush Generation, documenting their life stories.
It’s such a beautiful way to preserve the legacy of the Windrush Generation.
He is currently fundraising for Positive Network, a social club in Balham that supports retired Caribbean nurses from the Windrush Generation, to help raise money for a second-hand minibus so members can continue getting to the club, hospital appointments, and community outings.
Image from @stevereevesphotographer
Things to look out for later in the year & beyond
A to B by Tia-Renee Mullings and Directed by Ewa Dina is set to a Caribbean South London soundtrack. It's about the beauty and absurdity of trying to be seen and to connect in a world that won’t stop interrupting. A coming-of-age romcom where nothing goes to plan, but everything still matters. More info
Queenie is Working on it - The countdown is on for the release of Candice Carty-Williams latest book, Queenie is Working on it and to celebrate the launch of her new book she is doing a UK tour across 7 cites from 10 June - 11 July. Candice' second installment of the book, Queenie Is Working on is available for pre-order and officially out on 9 August. More info
More Life To Plantain on 14 June at Kiju Coffee House, London - An intimate evening exploring plantain through food, storytelling and culture.
More Life To Plantain is an immersive cultural supper club exploring the stories, journeys and significance of plantain across different cultures and diasporas. More info
A Taste of Rum with Ian Burrell at the Cheltenham Food and Drink Festival on 19, 20, 21 June. The Award winning Global Rum Ambassador and TV Presenter, Ian Burrell, will take your taste buds & palate on an “Edu-Taining” tour of the Rum world. More info
Stand up with the Real McCoy on 21 June at The Top Secret Comedy Club (23 Kingsway), London. The ultimate classic comedy show to make you laugh like the old days, featuring Robbie Gee, Eddie Nestor, Richard Blackwood, and Curtis Walker. More info
Aaron Sorkin’s To Kill a Mockingbird, directed by Bartlett Sher, returns to the West End at Wyndham’s Theatre from 25 June - 12 September. More info
The Harder They Come is back at Stratford East until 4th July. Based on the cult classic film that brought reggae to the world, it tells the story of Ivan, an aspiring singer who arrives in Kingston, Jamaica, determined to live out his dreams on his own terms and make it as a music superstar. More info
Celebrating John Holt - In celebration of one of the most iconic reggae musicians of all time, AGMP Concerts are presenting a special one-off night in dedication to John Holt, with a live performance from Michael Mendez & 1,000 Volts of Holt, under the musical direction of Ciyo 'Guitar' Brown on 10th July at London - The 100 Club. More info
Lovers Rock Reggae - An immersive experience, blending soulful reggae with a two-course Caribbean roast dinner and live entertainment from 19 July in Reading, 26 July in London, 2 August in Birmingham and 4 October in Liverpool. More info
Steel Pan Reimagined takes place on 25 July at the Southbank, celebrating 75 years since the sound of the steel pan arrived in the UK. More info
64th Anniversary of Jamaica’s Independence - His Excellency Alexander Williams, High Commissioner of Jamaica to the UK, and Staff of the Jamaican High Commission, London invite members of the Jamaican Diaspora, the Diplomatic Community, friends of Jamaica, and the wider community to a Service of Praise & Thanksgiving in celebration of the 64th Anniversary of Jamaica’s Independence on Saturday, 1st August 2026 at Westminster Chapel. More info
Black Eats Fest returns to Hackney Bridge on 7 - 9 August and 3 - 4 October. Expect - food, culture, vibes & more with new traders, returning favourites and live entertainment, and a space that continues to spotlight and celebrate Black-owned businesses. More info
Candice Carty-Williams, author of Queenie is back with her second installment of the book, Queenie Is Working on It. It's available for pre-order and officially out on 9 August. More info
Original's Flavas new cook book - Easy Caribbean is out in the UK 27 August. Inside the book, you’ll find Jamaican classics made simpler, quicker and more convenient, alongside brand new delicious recipes anybody can make. More info
Kiln Theatre presents Nine Night by Natasha Gordon from 12 Nov - 19 Dec 2026 - When Gloria passes, her family gathers for the traditional Jamaican Nine Night. And that means the whole family. As more and more mourners gather bringing rum and curry and complaints, tensions build, and the family must face some uncomfortable truths. More info
Nanny of the Maroons - The Belgrade Theatre's next landmark production, coming Spring 2027, will bring the story of Nanny of the Maroons to life. As a freedom fighter of the 18th century and Jamaican national hero, her courage and resilience continue to inspire generations today. 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!
About Tihara Smith
Tihara is a fashion designer and textile artist passionate about design, the Caribbean and sharing the Windrush story. She loves creating distinctive pieces that allow people to have a little piece of the Caribbean 🌴✨
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.
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.
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.
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