SCHEDULE

SCHEDULE

BIG HBCU ENERGY

This unique celebration of alumni excellence will feature a host of HBCU-inspired activities, including those designed to extend our impact: a pre-fest Alumni Engagement Summit, College Fair and a Community Service Initiative.

From beach parties to the world's first HBCU Battle of the Boats, the fest's day and nighttime social events will feature HBCU alumni DJs and special guests.

The FABA Fest experience will also highlight Bajan culture at every turn..

The result?  An experience an unlike any other festival in the world.

*Events subject to change

DAY ONE

01/03

HBCU Alumni Engagement Summit

8 am - 3 pm

Invitation Only

As a prelude to the inaugural For Alumni, By Alumni (FABA) Festival, this one-day summit will bring together HBCU advancement, alumni relations, and international outreach leaders, as well as alumni association leaders to explore innovative approaches to increasing alumni engagement and giving, as well as opportunities to increase international alumni engagement and international student outreach.

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"Toast to Excellence" VIP Welcome

6 - 8 pm

VIP Pass Holders/Invitation Only

Our VIP Welcome Reception will kick off FABA Fest with a “Toast to Excellence.” The phenomenal Trudiann Branker – the first female Master Blender at Mount Gay Rum and proud Howard University alumna -- will host an exclusive, Master Blender Collection limited-edition release rum tasting. Our VIP guests will indulge in the flavors of the iconic rum and raise a glass to the start of an incredible FABA Fest.

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Homecoming in Barbados

8 pm - 2 am

Copacabana Beach Club

Prepare to kick off FABA Fest with an unforgettable night that embodies the essence of an HBCU Homecoming party, with Bajan vibes. Guests will experience the rich cultural tapestry of Barbados through captivating live performances and interactive experiences. They will then be transported to an HBCU “Yard” with a soundtrack provided by HBCU alumni DJs, including celebrity DJ Trauma, an alum of Clark Atlanta University. The night will be a celebration of Black excellence that combines the best of both worlds. 

DAY TWO

01/03

"Rise & Lime" with Stades Rum

9 am - 12 pm

VIP Pass Holders Only

“Rise & Lime” hosted by Stades Rum, will be a VIP exclusive event offering the perfect blend of relaxation and revelry. VIPs will indulge in delectable Caribbean delicacies with a backdrop featuring the stunning Barbadian coastline. This exclusive event promises a perfect blend of good company, delectable cuisine, and the refreshing ambiance of the ocean waves.

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Divine 9 & Friends Pool Party

2 - 6 pm

Deia Beach

Who says you can’t bring your “Sands” to the Beach? Join us for a pool party for all Divine 9 sorority and fraternity members and the people who love to party with them! Don your Greek paraphernalia, dive into the festivities and enjoy a day of sun, fun and fellowship.

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HBCU Love x Oistins Fish Fry

8 pm - 2 am

Oistins Bay Garden

Experience the legendary Friday night Oistins Fish Fry, an iconic Barbadian tradition that has captivated locals and visitors alike for years. Enjoy delectable seafood, grilled to perfection, and immerse yourself in the lively local culture. Our Alumni DJs will take the stage to bring big HBCU energy to this festive night. Friday night in Oistins promises to be a highlight of your FABA Fest experience.

DAY THREE

01/04

'Excellence in Service' Activity

9 - 10 am

Shirley Chisholm Primary School

Be a part of a morning of service at a Shirley Chisholm Primary School. FABA Fest is proud to assist with a garden planting project that will benefit the school and its students. Join us in making a positive impact on the local community while honoring the commitment to service that defines HBCU culture.

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HBCU College Fair

10 am - 12 pm

Lloyd Erskine Sandiford Centre (LESC)

Calling all secondary students and current college students and parents! Join us for the HBCU College Fair and explore educational opportunities offered by Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). Meet HBCU representatives to gain valuable insights into admissions, scholarships, and campus life. In addition to this valuable education opportunity, we’ll have a range of HBCU giveaways and door prizes!  

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Battle of the Boats

3  - 7 pm

Sail the pristine waters of Barbados while enjoying cocktails, culinary treats and camaraderie, with a soundtrack provided by our FABA Fest DJs. Our Battle of the Boats onboard party will reveal which HBCU is the livest of them all!  

Island Tailgate

7 - 9 pm

Worthing Square Food Court


DAY FOUR

01/01

'It was all a Dream" Brunch Finale

11 am -  6 pm

Sweetfield Manor

FABA Fest will culminate in a celestial glow of excellence at our brunch finale. Put on your Homecoming worthy fits and enjoy delicious cuisine from top Barbadian chefs, and cocktails from master mixologists, all punctuated beautifully by beats that will remind you of undergrad. Raise a glass to the unforgettable experiences and lifelong memories created during this historic celebration of HBCU alumni. It's a fitting end to a remarkable weekend of culture and community.

Mood: Bold Black Excellence

Attire: Bold Black Excellence

Vibes: Bold Black Excellence

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