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The official language of The Bahamas is English. Most Bahamians speak in a common dialect which is strongly influenced by the English, Spanish, French and African languages and dialects brought to The Bahamas by groups when they arrived to the islands. Still today, there are still many words commonly used in Bahamian dialect which can be traced to the Yoruba, Fulani and Gulla languages.

Given the abundant and diverse marine life in The Bahamas, seafood makes up a significant part of the Bahamian diet. Bahamian cuisine is typified by its use of vibrant and flavourful, often spicy, herbs and seasonings. Crabs, lobsters, and a variety of fish can be served in dishes prepared into a number of signature Bahamian dishes. However, king (or queen) among foods in The Bahamas is the Conch. The sea mollusc is prepared in a range of ways, from fried to soup, and even prepared as a salad (raw, with onions, peppers, lime and other spices). The Bahamas is also known for its unique beverages, including Beers and mixed drinks such as the Bahama Mama, Goombay Smash and Gullywash (or “sky juice”).

Music plays a big part in Bahamian culture. Throughout the islands, there are still traces of African rhythms, Caribbean Calypso, English folk songs and a unique Bahamian Goombay traditional music, which combines African musical traditions with European colonial influences.  Bahamian musical traditions can be traced back to slavery and the storytelling and dancing performed to a fast-tempoed “goom-bahhh” beat on a goatskin drum.  Many contemporary Bahamian musicians draw on popular musical genres including Rake n Scrape, Reggae, Rhythm and Blues, Jazz, Soca, and Hip Hop.

Junkanoo is often cited as the premier expression of Bahamian culture, and is believed to have roots dating to the 16th or 17th Century. The Junkanoo celebration is an elaborate parade of music, dancing and colourful costumes, all skilfully co-ordinated by participants to reflect themes that depict significant historical and current events, individuals, and even aspects of Bahamian life. Junkanoo parades are usually held during the winter season, with the largest parade happening in the Capital on Boxing Day (26 December) and New Year’s Day (1 January). Parades are also held on the various islands in The Bahamas, and recently a summer incarnation of the parade has gained notoriety among locals and tourists alike.

Recognising the importance of the leisure aspects of sports in The Bahamas, the Government promotes sports for Bahamians and visitors alike, especially those interested in golf, fishing and sailing. Seeing the need for more people participating in sports at the amateur level, and to foster more Bahamian athletes excelling on the international stage, the Government looks to sports to contribute to the achievement of its wider objectives such as health, education, crime reduction and social cohesion.

The Bahamas has a long and accomplished Sporting history, having produced athletes that have ranked atop their sports both regionally and on the world Stage. The Bahamas has won numerous championships and medals at premiere international sporting events such as the Commonwealth Games, the CARIFTA Games, the IAAF World Championships and the Olympics.
To date, The Bahamas has earned more than 30 medals at the Commonwealth Games, 18 Medals at the IAAF World Championships, more than 500 CARIFTA medals, and 12 Olympic medals, making it one of the most decorated Nations in the world, per capita.

As The Bahamas is home to some of the most pristine marine environments in the world, water sports play a significant role in Bahamian life. Sailing, sports fishing and diving are enjoyed by Bahamians and tourists alike each year. For over 60 years, Bahamians have come together to mark the beginning of Summer with a season of Regattas, the largest of which in the National Family Island Regatta, held in the Exumas Islands and Cays in The Bahamas. Regattas, also called Sloop Sailing are an exhibition of Bahamian sportsmanship and natural talent, and the ships are often constructed by the very crew that sail them in competition.

Arts/Craft Works
Bahamian craftwork has evolved over time combining traditions from the various cultures that have influenced the population through its history. Today, straw goods, wood, stone and shell carvings can all be found on display in one of the many markets that are dedicated to the creation, exhibition and distribution of these unique Bahamian works of art.

A naturally resourceful people, generations of Bahamians have been skilled at crafting natural elements found in The Bahamas to serve more practical and sometimes decorative purposes. Straw, sponge, coral, limestone, shells and various types of hard wood are all transformed into tools, containers, clothing, jewellery and any other item that can be imagined.

Bush medicine is also a staple of Bahamian tradition, and is the use of  indigenous plants for medicinal purposes. It’s a tradition African slaves brought with them when they were brought to The Bahamas. There are nearly 100 plants found in The Bahamas that can be used for medical treatment. Examples include aloe vera, crab bush, fig leaf, sailors' flowers and white sage. 

While The Bahamas Constitution guarantees a freedom of Religion and Conscience, the vast majority of Bahamians follow the Christian faith. Religion is important in the lives of the Bahamian people. Even small communities have several churches. The religious devotion in The Bahamas is often credited to the Eleutheran Adventurers and their Puritan influences.