Making the Most of Mango Season - 2025!

tuna with mango mix on top
by Chelsea Tennant

Every year, from June 1 to July 31, the Cayman Islands welcome one of the best times of the year—peak mango season. Whether you’re strolling down the farmer’s markets or sipping on cocktails, mangoes are in full swing—but I have to acknowledge that this year’s season is especially precious.

Why? Farmer and mango expert, Willie Ebanks, report this year’s yields are well below usual—closer to 800 lbs/day versus the typical 4,000 lbs/day. So this blog is a reminder to savour every juicy bite!

A Must Attend Event - Mango Fest 2025

To celebrate this island delicacy with fellow mango lovers, mark your calendars for Saturday, July 5, 2025, from 2–7 pm at the Cayman Islands National Museum in George Town. You know it’s an extra special event when they close the road for the amount of stalls and guests they have every year! This is a family friendly event with free admission and multiple stalls. This year’s Mango Fest, guests should expect to find:

  • Mango cocktails & mocktails
  • Mango culinary creations including desserts, jams, jellies and hot sauces
  • Mango themed contests, including a mango peeling and eating competition
  • Live music, locally-made crafts, and children’s games
  • Catboat rides in the harbour

This event heavily focuses on mangoes, but there are a variety of stalls that showcase their locally made products, such as hot sauce, thatch bags and beauty products. Show up at this year’s Mango Fest for an all around Caymanian experience that is enjoyed by tourists and residents.

 

mango dish drink and fruit

Best Ways to Enjoy the Mango Season

Farmer’s Markets & Local Producers

Head to the Hamlin Stephenson Farmer’s Market any Saturday morning when the stalls are in full swing! This is the perfect place to visit if you want to purchase local mangoes directly from any of the farmers, order a smoothie with local mango from the Zippy’s truck or purchase locally made condiments like mango jam from Willie’s Farm and mango pepper jelly from Chef Sara Mair-Doak.

Restaurants & Bars

There are a handful of restaurants and bars on island that truly support local farmers especially during mango season. Two of the go-to restaurants are Cayman Cabana and The Brasserie. Both businesses take full advantage of the season and you’ll find local mangoes utilised in all of their cocktails, main courses and desserts. At The Brasserie I’d recommend to start with their Tropical Sunrise cocktail made with local rum, local mango, allspice dram and lime followed by their Mango & Starfruit Ceviche. Cayman Cabana is serving their signature Mango, Avocado & Shrimp Salad and their seasonal specials features a Catch of the Day with mango salsa. In this summer heat you’ll also want to pop into Gelato & Co. for their local mango sorbet that is absolutely delightful!

Savor Every Mango Moment

Despite a lighter harvest this season, you’ll still find your pick of mango varieties; East Indian, Carrie, Julie, Nam Dok, and more. Whether you have yours fresh from a farmer’s stall, or in a jam, seafood course or cocktail, mango is undeniably an island favourite. Where will you enjoy your next mango experience?

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