Caribbean Spirit in Serbia: Antigua and Barbuda to Participate in Expo 2027 Belgrade
Antigua and Barbuda, a twin-island nation in the Caribbean Sea, has officially confirmed its participation in Expo 2027 Belgrade and is one of 120 countries that will showcase themselves at the first International Exhibition of this kind in the Western Balkans.
This Caribbean country, part of the Lesser Antilles, established bilateral diplomatic relations with Serbia in 2018. Since then, the relationship has shown a positive trajectory, particularly following reciprocal visits at the level of foreign ministers. The strengthening of these friendly ties with a country that gained independence from the United Kingdom in 1981 will continue throughout Expo 2027.
“Although geographically distant, Serbia and Antigua and Barbuda share a common vision – that the world can be united around universal values that connect all nations and peoples. A “Play for Humanity” would not be complete without the warmth and cheerfulness of the Caribbean spirit. That is why we are truly delighted, as gracious hosts, to welcome Antigua and Barbuda – a country we believe is preparing a unique and original program,” said Danilo Jerinić, CEO of EXPO 2027 Ltd, Belgrade.
Some of the most popular traditional games in Antigua and Barbuda include Warri, which translates to “house” in many African dialects; a simplified form of backgammon; marbles; dominoes; and hand tennis, a game where players use their palms instead of rackets to hit the ball.
Bele and Benna are the traditional dance and music that blend African and Caribbean rhythms. Among the most distinctive musical instruments in the country are the Iron band, synonymous with Antigua and Barbuda, the steel pan, Antigua Fife, like a piccolo flute, and the Barbuda Banjo, a handmade string instrument crafted from recycled materials.
Cricket and sailing are two of the country’s most culturally significant sports. Cricket, a symbol of Caribbean pride, has produced legendary players from Antigua and Barbuda, such as Sir Vivian Richards, Sir Andy Roberts, Sir Curtly Ambrose, and Sir Richie Richardson. Given the country’s strong nautical traditions, sailing is also very popular, and Antigua and Barbuda boasts a packed sailing calendar with regattas normally held in English Harbour, against the backdrop of the UNESCO World Heritage site of Nelson’s Dockyard. In recent years, horse racing and arm wrestling have been gaining increasing numbers of enthusiasts.
The islands, also known for their 365 breathtaking beaches – one for each day of the year – debuted in Expo 1986 Vancouver and have regularly participated in International Exhibitions ever since. The country joined the Bureau International des Expositions (BIE) in 1997, making Expo 2027 in Belgrade the celebration of its 30th anniversary as a BIE member.
Expo 2027 will take place in Belgrade from May 15 to August 15, 2027, with the theme “Play for Humanity: Sport and Music for All.” The 93-day event is expected to attract over four million visitors from Serbia and around the world.