A free Caribbean Festival will be staged in Mayflower Park on 26th and 27th April, to celebrate the arrival of the ship Independence of the Seas to Southampton.

The ship will share the Guinness Book of Records title for the ‘world’s largest cruise ship’ with sister ships Freedom of the Seas and Liberty of the Seas and will be offering cruises out of Southampton throughout the Mediterranean and Northern Europe.

The Festival will feature Caribbean activities for everyone including Caribbean food and bar, arts and crafts, Caribbean beach, fun fair and leisure activities.

The festivities include a live music stage featuring Caribbean DJ’s featuring Coco P, DJ Briggy, Tom The Uplifter and top tribute bands: RU40 (a UB40 tribute band) and Legends (a Bob Marley and the Wailers tribute band).

There is also a chance to win a cruise for two on board the Independence of the Seas by answering a simple question as well as there will also be tours of Southampton Docks, providing an opportunity to enjoy a behind the scenes tour of Southampton's bustling port.

If you are interested in having an arts and crafts stall at the festival or need any other event information email events@southampton.gov.uk or call 07530 254937.