Cool Out 2026 reimagines the experience with new February dates, new spaces and broader focus

The Cool Out initiative continues to evolve in 2026, unveiling a reimagined program of events that reflect the growing intersection of finance, technology and the creative industries in the Cayman Islands and around the world.   For the first time, the Cool Out Conference & Showcases move from the traditional November slot to February, with events taking place Wednesday 11 February through Saturday 14 February, and expanding into new spaces designed to focus deeper dialogue, collaboration and access. 

At the heart of the exciting developments is the Endless Sea Studio, a new recording studio located on the waterfront on North Church Street in George Town.   The Cool Out Conference, Spotlight Lunch, Workshops and Drummers Hang during Cool Out 2026 will mark the inaugural use of the new studio, providing the ideal setting to showcase the growing impact of the creative industries and the emergence of the studio and the Cayman Islands as a hub for collaboration, innovation and cultural exchange.

Cool Out 2026 will start with a special evening of digital art and creativity during Open Canvas at KARoo on The Crescent of Camana Bay on Wednesday 11 February from 7 pm to 9pm.   This event is free to the public and will have interactive activities sure to thrill kids of all ages.  Digital creators will be on hand to showcase their talents including Douglas “JR” Cameron of The Duppy Project and Mari Abe of Bobo & TeeDee.  

From 9 am to 1:30 pm, the Conference will offer carefully curated panels of local and visiting experts on issues relating to the growth and sustainability of creative industries, the protection of intellectual property and other intangible assets and the positioning of the Cayman Islands as a global creative hub.  The Conference is not restricted to those in the creative industries.  Anyone interested in learning more about potential opportunities for their business or themselves will find something of interest.   A fireside chat between the President of the International  Association of Entertainment Lawyers (IAEL) and industry icon Iggy Pop, the godfather of punk rock, will end the Conference.

The evening of Friday 13 February, Endless Sea Studio will transform into an intimate space for a Drummers Hang, featuring world-renowned drummer Vinnie Colaiuta, offering attendees a rare opportunity to listen to stories of a rock legend’s remarkable career which includes working with legendary artists like Sting, Joanie Mitchell, Frank Zappa, Herbie Hancock and more.

The following day, Saturday 14 February, the focus will turn to the creative process and the mentoring of aspiring creative entrepreneurs in all forms (music, art, film, etc.).   The Cool Out Spotlight Lunch will start the day off followed by the Cool Out Workshops.   All aspiring artists aged 14 and up are encouraged to attend the workshops.  Led by both local and visiting experts, the workshops are designed to provide practical insight, inspiration, and direct engagement with professionals working at the highest levels of the creative industries.  Andrew Choi, the singing voice of Jinu, of the smash hit film Kpop Demon Hunters will be one of the workshop leaders.  Also returning will be Dr, Andrae Alexander, GRAMMY™ winning singer-songwriter and USC Professor.   

Cool Out 2026 will conclude with Cool Out’s Fish Tea Vibes, a free, public showcase at Cayman Cabana, beginning at 6:00 pm on Saturday 14 February. The evening will feature performances by Grace Christian Academy Steel Pan, Cayman International School Steel Pan, MuSessions by James Munroe Jr, with performances by Daniela Rose, Shenna Lee, Yahsave, Kyle Matrixx, Madam Nirosa and Colindra Rodericka Sterling-Blair and the Cayman National Dance Company, with special guest Andrew Choi, the singing voice of Jinu from the hit K-pop Demon Hunters.  This all ages show promises to be a great way for the family to celebrate Valentines Day together. The Fish Tea Vibes showcase will lead into an after-party at Cayman Cabana hosted by Jason “JG” Gilbert pka Skorch Bun It, closing the weekend with an open, community-focused celebration.