Senator Michael Freeland, Deputy Chair of the Festivals Commission, has officially revealed the comprehensive schedule for Antigua Carnival 2026, announcing an ambitious two-week extravaganza scheduled from July 25 to August 4. The announcement came during a media launch event where Freeland emphasized building upon the successful momentum of previous celebrations.
The 2026 festivities will commence with an official launch in April, followed by the initiation of Rhythm Fridays starting May 29. The cultural program will feature the traditional opening of Calypso tents, with Calypso Monarch quarterfinals scheduled for June 26-27. Party Monarch events and semifinals will follow in early to mid-July, setting the stage for the main celebrations.
A significant focus will be placed on youth engagement through events including the Mr. and Miss Teenage Pageant, Junior Calypso, and Junior Party Monarch competitions. The prestigious Queen of Carnival Pageant is slated for July 21, serving as a prelude to the main carnival events.
The official opening of Carnival City on July 25 will mark the beginning of continuous festivities featuring T-Shirt Mas, Junior Carnival, J’ouvert, Panorama, Party Monarch competitions, and the traditional Monday and Tuesday mas celebrations. The grand finale will include the spectacular Parade of Bands and Last Lap ceremonies.
Senator Freeland extended an invitation to both local residents and international visitors to prepare for what promises to be an expanded and energetically charged carnival season, encouraging everyone to ‘feel the rhythm’ throughout the non-stop cultural celebration.