[1] It was started to provide a venue to "depict the life of the people of the Region, their heroes, morals, myths, traditions, beliefs, creativity and ways of expression"[2] by fostering a sense of Caribbean unity, and motivating artists by showing the best of their home country.
Host countries such as Guyana and Suriname that boast diverse heritage showcase historical exhibits and anthropological studies of the indigenous people.
Dr. Hilary Brown, CARICOM Secretariat’s Programme Manager for Culture and Community Development, made this announcement at the 21st Meeting of the Regional Cultural Committee (RCC), which opened at the Courtyard Marriott in Paramaribo, Suriname, on December 1.“The Caribbean Community welcomes the offer of the Government of Suriname to host CARIFESTA XI in 2013 and we are all looking forward to the event with great anticipation, she stated,” noting that CARICOM was at a “crossroads in the development of this highly valued regional expose’ of Caribbean arts and culture.” In 2009, CARIFESTA returned to Guyana, attracting over 1000 participants of all ages.
[8] In July 2012 in Saint Lucia, Haitian President Michel Martelly expressed interest in hosting CARIFESTA to increase cultural relations with other neighboring nations.
2013 - Apart from the 15-member CARICOM grouping, the event plans to attract countries of the Union of South American Nations (UNASUR), of which Suriname became a full member.
The hub of CARIFESTA XIV was Caribbean Grand Market located in Queen's Park Savannah with over 100 events across both islands.