Your Guide to the Fish Fry in Turks and Caicos

Celebrating Turks and Caicos Islands Culture Every Thursday

If you’re planning a trip to the beautiful island of Providenciales in the Turks and Caicos Islands, you won’t want to miss out on the flavours and culture of the islands. And one of the best ways to experience this is by attending the weekly Fish Fry in Providenciales. We share all the details about this weekly happening and some tips and tricks to make the most of your time at Fish Fry!

What is the Fish Fry?

The Fish Fry is a weekly event held every Thursday evening at Stubbs Diamond Plaza in The Bight. It’s a cultural experience that brings together locals and tourists with live local music and a number of local vendors selling food, drinks, handmade crafts and souvenirs. Make this a part of your stay in Providenciales for perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich culinary and musical traditions of the Turks and Caicos islands.

The tradition of the island fish fry dates back to the 19th century in Turks and Caicos when the islands were a popular stop for ships travelling between Europe and the Americas. The sailors would often bring fresh fish to the island, and the locals would gather to cook and share a meal together.

Today, the Fish Fry has become a weekly event in Provo, where locals and tourists alike can come together to experience the vibrant culture of the islands through food, music and crafts.

Fresh coconut with straw from coco vibes in turks and caicos

Sample Fresh Coconuts from Coco Vibes.

What to Expect at the Fish Fry

The Fish Fry takes place every Thursday evening at Stubbs Diamond Plaza on Sibonne Rd in The Bight. This central location is just a short walk or ride from the popular Grace Bay Beach hotels. It is also easily accessible by taxi or rental car from other areas of the island. The evening kicks off at 5:30 pm and goes on until 9:30 pm. Here’s what you can expect when you attend the fish fry:

Local Flavours

At the Fish Fry you will have the chance to sample favourite local dishes and drinks. There’s of course a focus on seafood, with fresh fish and lobster (during season) on the menu! In addition to seafood, you’ll also find a variety of other local dishes at the fish fry. From jerk chicken to conch fritters to peas and rice, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. And don’t forget to try the island’s national dish, conch salad, made with fresh conch, peppers, and onions.

There’s also a variety of drinks to try, from locally brewed beer to Turks and Caicos’ famous rum punch. A favourite local cocktail is Gully Wash which combines coconut water with condensed milk and gin. There are a number of non-alcoholic options as well. Sip on a fresh coconut – with or without the rum – and soft drinks like soda, juice and water are available.

Tropical drinks at Fish Fry in Turks and Caicos

Live Music

As you enjoy your meal, you’ll be serenaded by live music from a variety of local bands and artists. Music genres range from popular songs to the more traditional Ripsaw music, also known as Rake and Scrape. There is usually a performance by local We Funk Band with a Junkanoo rush.

Junkanoo is a traditional Bahamian and Caribbean parade featuring musicians and dancers in vibrant costumes, dancing and parading to drums, cowbells, whistles and other local musical instruments. Junkanoo has long been a part of TCI’s musical heritage. Fish Fry offers visitors a chance to enjoy and join in on the Junkanoo fun. Onlookers are encouraged to participate – jump on in and dance and parade with the band!

Local musicians at the weekly Fish Fry in Turks and Caicos

Local Vendors

Aside from enjoying the delicious food and live music, visitors to the fish fry event can also browse through a variety of local vendors offering handmade crafts, one-of-a-kind jewelry pieces, and unique souvenirs. From intricately designed earrings to beautifully handcrafted candles, and even custom souvenir t-shirts, there is a diverse selection to choose from. Whether you’re looking for a special memento to remember your trip by or a gift for a loved one, the vendors at the fish fry provide plenty of options for shoppers to explore.

Supporting these local businesses not only allows visitors to take home a piece of Turks and Caicos culture but also helps to contribute to the local economy.

Local Vendors at Fish Fry in Turks and Caicos

Tips for Attending the Fish Fry

If you’re planning on attending the Fish Fry in Providenciales, here are some tips to help you make the most of your experience.

Arrive Early

The fish fry can get quite busy, so it’s best to arrive early to find parking nearby, avoid long lines and secure a good spot to sit and enjoy your meal.

Bring Cash

While some vendors may accept credit cards, it’s always a good idea to bring cash to the fish fry. This will make it easier to purchase food and souvenirs from the local vendors.

Try Something New

The fish fry is the perfect opportunity to try out some new dishes and flavours. Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and try something you’ve never had before.

Stay for the Entertainment

The live music at the fish fry is not to be missed. Make sure to stick around after your meal to enjoy the local bands and artists performing. And you definitely don’t want to miss the Junkanoo Rush from We Funk Junkanoo!

Junkanoo with We Funk Junkanoo at Fish Fry Turks and Caicos

Local ripsaw musician at Fish Fry in Turks and Caicos

The Fish Fry in Providenciales is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the local flavours and culture of Turks and Caicos. With delicious seafood, live music, and a fun atmosphere, it’s an event that should not be missed on your TCI itinerary. And don’t forget to explore other places on the island to try out traditional dishes and support local businesses, we list some of our favourites here. Let us help you plan your stay, get in touch today.