The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands Rises Into Halloween With a Week of Family Discovery and Michelin-Starred Dining
The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands, invites guests to celebrate Mid-Autumn as it unfolds into Halloween with Rise of the Phoenix, a week-long island celebration from October 26 to November 1, 2026. Inspired by the mythical Phoenix and its journey of transformation, resilience, and renewal, the resort reimagines Halloween through the colors and natural beauty of the Maldives. Phoenix feathers emerge through tropical greens evolving into warm autumn colors, setting the scene for a program of family discovery, gastronomy, creativity, wellness, and ocean experiences. Born from fire, the Phoenix becomes the thread connecting the week, as feathers, flames, and nature transform the island into a world of imagination.
Halloween Science and Discovery with TheDadLab
At the heart of the family program, Sergei Urban, visionary creator of TheDadLab, returns to the resort for an exclusive Halloween residency. Known for turning science into playful, hands-on discovery, Sergei will bring the spirit of the Phoenix to life for young guests through a series of interactive experiments at Ritz Kids. From October 28 to 31, a different laboratory opens each afternoon, from the Candy Lab, exploring the science behind favorite Halloween sweets, to the Haunted Lab, transforming science into a friendly graveyard of ghosts, wiggly worms, and spooky surprises. Designed for children ages 4 to 12, the experiences invite families to discover Halloween through curiosity, imagination, and learning through play. Beyond TheDadLab, younger guests follow the Phoenix across the island through a rich calendar of family experiences, from floral pumpkin carving and mystery treats to creative workshops and the long-awaited Phoenix Gala Fashion Show.
Three-Michelin-Starred Excellence Arrives in the Maldives
The island’s culinary scene rises alongside the Phoenix with the arrival of Chef Jean-Philippe Blondet of the three-Michelin-starred Alain Ducasse at The Dorchester in London. For two exclusive evenings, the acclaimed chef brings his contemporary French haute cuisine to the Maldives, defined by distinctive flavors, exceptional ingredients, and unexpected twists.
On October 28, The Art of Savoir-Faire takes over La Locanda for an intimate Michelin Table by Chef Blondet, presenting his signature cuisine through a refined set menu inspired by the culinary philosophy that has earned Alain Ducasse at The Dorchester three Michelin stars. The following evening, A Dialogue of Flavors unfolds at Summer Pavilion, the resort’s four-star Forbes Travel Guide-rated Cantonese restaurant, where Chef Blondet joins Chef David for an exclusive four-hands dinner. French refinement meets Cantonese artistry through a collaborative menu and interactive culinary moments, creating a dialogue between two distinctive culinary expressions in the lantern-inspired ambiance of the overwater restaurant.
The Rise of the Phoenix
Across the week, guests are invited to join a collection of experiences inspired by movement, nature, creativity and renewal. They can explore the island’s underwater world through coral planting, reef discovery, and snorkeling; reconnect through restorative yoga and spa rituals; or embrace creativity through seasonal workshops. The celebration culminates on October 31, when guests gather at Recreation Beach for the Phoenix Carnival, bringing together festive flavors and live entertainment in a vibrant finale. Against the Maldivian night sky, the Phoenix finally rises, completing its journey from embers to rebirth and marking a new beginning for the season.
