Culture of Antigua and Barbuda

The traditions of West Africa and the United Kingdom have the biggest impact on the culture of Antigua and Barbuda.

Highland fling and quadrille are two classic colonial dance forms that have been adapted for African audiences.

The lack of a French colonial past (French islands of the Lesser Antilles retain much music and dance that is derived from Africa), the influence of the wealthy Codrington family, a relatively homogenous African ethnic identity, the absence of African immigration following the peak of slavery importation, the British military presence at Shirley Heights, and a recent history of unstable economy and government are all factors that contributed to the loss of Antiguan traditions.

[2] An upbeat folk genre from Antigua called Benna (or Bennah) was created after slavery was outlawed.

Call-and-response songs featuring a leader and an audience typically focused on racy and lewd rumors and gossip.

[5] Antiguan Carnival replaced the Old Time Christmas Festival in 1957,[6][7] with hopes of inspiring tourism in Antigua and Barbuda.

The local food has evolved to include regional delicacies from other Caribbean nations, such as jerk meats from Jamaica or roti from Trinidad.

[19] The Antigua, Saint Kitts and Nevis, and many more produce ducana, a sweet potato dumpling or pudding.