by Brian Major
Last updated: 12:15 PM ET, Fri June 26, 2026
Antigua and Barbuda is preparing to welcome visitors and
returning nationals for eleven days of culture, music and revelry as Antigua
Carnival returns from July 25 to August 4, 2026.
Under the theme “Feel the Rhythm,” Antigua Carnival will
transform the destination into an island-wide party, with steelpan, calypso and
soca music filling the air, traditional characters and colorful masquerades
parading through the streets and unforgettable fete that will keep attendees
partying from the wee hours of the morning straight into the night.
“Antigua Carnival invites the world to ‘Feel the Rhythm,’ as
we host the Caribbean’s greatest summer festival,” said Elizabeth Makhoul, Antigua
and Barbuda Festivals Commission chair ambassador. “Visitors can immerse
themselves in the heartbeat of Antigua and Barbuda through vibrant celebrations,
performances of steelpan, soca, calypso, mas and authentic cultural experiences
that capture the true rhythm of the Caribbean.”
“Antigua Carnival offers visitors an opportunity to visit
Antigua and Barbuda at its most vibrant time and through the unique sounds of
our music, distinct island cuisine and the warmth of our people,” said
Charmaine Spencer, chief marketing officer of the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism
Authority.
“Coupled with our stunning beaches, Antigua Carnival
presents the perfect summer getaway for travelers seeking relaxing beach days
and evenings filled with the rhythm of the Carnival,” Spencer added. “It is the
ideal combination of relaxation, culture and festivities.”
Antigua Carnival 2026 will feature an exciting program
including signature street parades through St. John’s City from the unique
opening of Carnival and T-Shirt Mas to J’ouvert, Carnival Monday and Carnival
Tuesday’s Parade of the Bands, and the culmination – Last Lap.
Major music performances, competitions and the iron band will
keep the rhythm high with top local performers competing in the Party Monarch
and Calypso Monarch for prestigious titles. “Face Off Antigua vs. Dominica”
where Antigua and Barbuda’s legendary Burning Flames band will go head-to-head
with Dominica’s premier bouyon band Triple K International is a premiere event.
Regional soca stars Patrice Roberts, Machel Montano, Skinny Fabulous and Muddy
are also set to headline performances along with Antigua and Babuda soca
sensations Tian Winter and Tizzy. The Panorama competition will highlight the
rich tradition of steelpan, delivering powerful and captivating performances.
The eleven days will overflow with non-stop rhythm.
Travelers are encouraged to secure their flights and
accommodations now and begin planning for the ultimate Carnival experience.
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