National Symbols 

In February 2024, Cabinet granted approval based on recommendation of 5 (five) new National Symbols. These five new symbols recognise the importance of national identity to the Cayman Islands and represent a significant effort to preserve and bring awareness to Cayman’s cultural heritage.

Following the announcement of the new symbols, the Ministry held a logo competition on social media:

Official Weh We From Logo- Elements of the National Symbols

Cayman Stew Turtle is a unique culinary dish that is reflective of the Cayman Islands rich maritime heritage. The primary ingredient is turtle meat, traditionally sourced from the green sea turtle. This meat is known for its rich flavour and tender texture.

• Tradition: Stew Turtle is a part of the cultural fabric of the Cayman Islands. It is often prepared for special occasions, community gatherings, and local festivals, symbolising hospitality and the sharing of the island’s rich culinary heritage.

• Main Ingredients: The primary ingredient is turtle meat, traditionally sourced from the green sea turtle. This meat is known for its rich flavor and tender texture that was traditionally seasoned with black pepper, salt and local peppers that were in season.

• Accompaniments: Traditional pairings with stew turtle includes rice and beans, a hearty and nutritious complement to the rich flavors of the stew, plantains - fried or boiled - which add a sweet and savory balance to the dish, local vegetables - such as callaloo, breadfruit, or yams, adding variety and nutritional value to the meal and johnnycakes that are fried bread or dumplings, perfect for soaking up the stew sauce.

• Sustainability: In response to concerns about the declining population of wild sea turtles in local waters, the Cayman Islands developed modern practices that emphasise sustainability. The Cayman Turtle Centre plays a crucial role in these efforts, operating as a conservation facility that balances the cultural importance of turtle meat with the need for environmental stewardship.

Swanky is a traditional Caymanian drink that is historically rooted and associated with the islands’ hot climate. Its key ingredient is Seville oranges (bitter orange) which has a distinctive bitter and sour taste. This distinct taste is balanced out with brown sugar for a pinch of sweetness Caymanians have come to love, cherish and enjoy.

• Tradition: Swanky is a staple at local gatherings, celebrations, and family events, symbolizing hospitality and the sharing of simple, yet cherished traditions.

• Recipe: Swanky is made from natural ingredients; seville oranges, brown sugar and water

• Sustainability: The use of locally sourced Seville oranges reflects the Cayman Islands’ commitment to utilizing homegrown produce and supporting local agriculture. By being made from natural ingredients, Swanky consists of minimum processing, aligning with sustainable and healthy living practices.

Caymanian Heavy Cake is traditionally made from cassava, yam, sweet potato, breadfruit, pumpkin and other available provisions and goods Caymanians have access to. Any variation of cake is rich, sticky and dark in colour that results from the incorporation of coconut milk which is boiled and blended with vanilla, brown sugar, butter and spices.

• Tradition: Heavy cakes are often made for special occasions such as Christmas, weddings, and community gatherings, symbolising celebration and tradition.

• Main Ingredients: The main ingredient of heavy cakes is a starchy base that can be cassava, yam, or any combination of ground provisions that was in season at the time. Brown sugar is commonly used along with spices such as nutmeg and cinnamon with vanilla flavouring to enhance the flavour of the heavycake. In some instances, coconut milk is used to adds richness and a distinctive flavour.

• Types of Heavy Cakes

  1. Cassava

  2. Yan (Sweet Potato)

  3. Breadfruit

  4. Custard Top and so much more!

• Generational Recipes: The recipes for Caymanian heavycakes are often passed down through generations, with each family adding its own unique touch, making it a deeply personal and a beloved cultural dessert.

• Sustainability:The use of locally sourced Seville oranges reflects the Cayman Islands’ commitment to utilizing homegrown produce and supporting local agriculture. By being made from natural ingredients, Swanky consists of minimum processing, aligning with sustainable and healthy living practices.

The Cayman Quadrille is a traditional dance that was a beloved form of entertainment in the Cayman Islands. Originating from the late 18th century of French society and spreading to England in the early 19th century, Caymanians evolved the Quadrille into a ballroom (formal) and camp (lively) style. This evolution was characterized by six distinct figures and eight counts that embodied the spirit and rhythm of African influences that featured more rhythm, tempo and lively steps.

• Tradition: Kitchen dances that were held in separate kitchen buildings known as Cabooses. Often taking place in homes or yards, featured local musicians who played instruments like the banjo, fiddle, grater, maracas, and even bottles. During this time the quadrille became particularly favoured in comparison to other traditional dances such as the waltz and polka, enjoyed by Caymanians during special occasions.

• Unique Elements: The Cayman Quadrille was primarily performed at was known as kitchen dances that were held in separate kitchen buildings known as Cabooses....enjoyed by Caymanians during a range of special occasions.

The traditional clothing worn by Caymanian men and women reflects the simplicity, durability, and practicality that were essential in the daily lives during the 18th and 19th century. The wearing of this clothing showcases the resourcefulness of the Caymanian people and is a symbol of Caymanian identity and pride that showcases the cultural heritage of the Cayman Island.

• Everyday Dress:

  • Women: 1-piece long dress or 2-piece blouse and long skirt in the Plaid Gingham pattern in pastel colours, with the occasional option of an apron.

  • Men:

    • Working on Land

      •  Khaki Shirt and Pants, Rough Khaki for working, Dress Khaki evening

    • Turtle Rangers/Seamen

      • Denim Jeans, Chambray Shirts.

• Formal:

  • Women: 1-piece dress or 2-piece blouse and long skirt in solid light colours, often with the blouse being white

  • Men: Black or White Pants with White Shirts and Undershirts.