ST. JOHN’S, ANTIGUA – In a significant development for Caribbean cultural celebrations, the Antigua Barbuda Festivals Commission has formally inaugurated the registration process for Antigua Carnival 2026. The announcement, made on January 5th, 2026, marks the commencement of preparations for one of the region’s most anticipated cultural events.
The comprehensive registration initiative encompasses eighteen distinct participation categories, reflecting the diverse artistic expressions that characterize the carnival. The categories include traditional competitive events such as Calypso Monarch, Party Monarch, and Road March competitions, alongside showcase categories including Queen of Carnival and Mr. & Miss Teenage Pageant. The registration further extends to Business Floats, Mas Bands, J’ouvert Tropes Bands, and various junior divisions including Junior Calypso Monarch and Junior Carnival School Mas. Additionally, opportunities exist for Individual Mas participants, Cheerleaders, Monday Wear designers, T-Shirt Mas groups, and Vendors seeking to operate during the festivities.
Prospective participants may obtain registration documentation from two designated locations: the National Festivals Office situated on the first floor of the Cecil George-John Building at the intersection of Corn Alley and Redcliffe Street, and the Ministry of Creative Industries on Old Parham Road, located upstairs from the KFC/INET Building. These offices will maintain specific operating hours from Monday through Thursday between 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m., with Friday hours extending from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Completed registration forms must be returned to the National Festivals Office at the Cecil George-John Building address. This early registration launch provides ample preparation time for artists, performers, designers, and entrepreneurs to organize their contributions to what promises to be a spectacular celebration of Antiguan and Barbudan cultural heritage, artistic innovation, and community spirit.