March 17, 2025 (ST. JOHN’S, ANTIGUA) – The Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority is inviting visitors to immerse themselves in ‘The Caribbean’s Greatest Summer Festival: Antigua Carnival’ taking place from July 25 to August 5, 2025 in Antigua and Barbuda! This year, Antigua Carnival launches with the electrifying theme: ‘Itz A Vibe’, promising a remarkable celebration of music, mas, culture, and revelry that will appeal to carnival-lovers from all over the world.
With significant increases in visitor arrivals, airlift capacity, and accommodation occupancy levels reported by the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority, for each edition of the event, Antigua Carnival continues to solidify its position as a must-attend summer carnival in the Caribbean.
The Honourable Charles Fernandez, Minister of Tourism, Civil Aviation Transportation and Investment, said, “Carnival is one of Antigua and Barbuda’s biggest tourism events, drawing thousands of visitors who come not only for the mas but for the warmth of our people and authentic experiences. From the music to the mas, to our 365 award-winning beaches, Antigua Carnival 2025 provides an amazingly immersive summer vacation.”
The Honourable Daryll Matthew, Minister Responsible for Creative Industries, emphasized the significance of Carnival to the country, “Antigua Carnival is more than just another festival; it’s the heartbeat of our culture, the fuel for our creative industries, and a major economic driver. It unites us as a people and showcases Antigua and Barbuda to the world through our music, mas, and revelry. In 2025, ‘Itz A Vibe’ is more than just a theme, it’s our promise to you – from each committee member, artist, designer, performer and volunteer – of an unforgettable experience.”
Carnival Lovers planning their next carnival experience can look forward to lots of new updates for Antigua Carnival 2025. Ambassador Elizabeth Makhoul, Chair of the Antigua and Barbuda Festivals Commission, said, “The Festivals Commission has already begun engaging key stakeholders to ensure that Antigua Carnival 2025 is bigger and better. We are implementing exciting changes and major improvements that will enhance the overall product and experience for revelers, visitors, and supporters alike.”
Exciting Highlights of Antigua Carnival 2025
- T-Shirt Mas (July 26): Kick off the street parades with the unique and popular t-shirt mas.
- Jaycees Queen Show (July 28): Witness elegance, poise, and regional talent.
- Soca Monarch (August 3): The battle of Antigua and Barbuda’s best soca artists. Expect high-energy performances, flag waving and dancing.
- Burning Flames 40th Anniversary Celebration (July 30): Take a journey with Burning Flames as they take you through their oldest to their latest hits.
- Melting Pot (July 31): Performances by some of the top artists within the Caribbean.
- Watch Night (August 1): a rich cultural evening filled with songs, drumming, messages, iron band perfoances, and more, celebrating freedom, faith, community, and resilience.
- Panorama (August 2): The sweet sounds of steelpan take center-stage in this intense musical showdown.
- J’ouvert (August 4): Get ready for early morning jam sessions as you hit the streets and experience paint, powder, iron band, steel pan, music, and fun characters.
- Monday Mas Parade & Parade of Bands (August 4 & 5): Witness extravagant costumes, and epic vibes as mas players, musicians and festive groups bring the streets to life.
- Last Lap (August 5): End your Carnival with one final high-energy street party in St. John’s City.
Plan your trip, secure your accommodations, and prepare to experience the vibes of Antigua Carnival, The Caribbean’s Greatest Summer Festival taking place from July 25 – August 5, 2025. For the chance to Win the Ultimate Vibes Experience for Antigua Carnival 2025’. For carnival event schedules, experiences, and special offers, go to: www.visitantiguabarbuda.com or follow us on Instagram: @antiguafestivalsofficial, and @antiguaandbarbuda and Facebook: @antiguacarnival and @AntiguaBarbuda
