As Told by Ali

Better late than never right? Especially if you’re still on the fence about Antigua’s Carnival or haven’t sorted out all of your plans yet. Here’s a quick guide with all the frequently asked questions about Antigua’s Carnival 2025.

Dates: July 25th 2025 – August 5th 2025

Carnival 2025 officially runs from July 25 to August 5, but the party starts way before that. Here are some of the key events you won’t want to miss:

Opening of Carnival/T-Shirt Mas – July 26th
J’ouvert Morning – August 4th
Carnival Monday and Tuesday – August 4th & 5th
Last Lap – August 5th

Parade Days

Antigua has TWO parade days, Carnival Monday (August 4th) and Carnival Tuesday (August 5th). On Carnival Monday which is typically known as Monday Mas, you can either wear your own body wear or one given by the band (included in package). On Carnival Tuesday, this is when you wear your full costume purchased from a band. You’ll also cross the stage in Carnival City (Antigua Recreation Grounds, ARG) on this day.

Carnival Bands

If you’re wanting to play mas with a band on Carnival Tuesday, I hope you’ve already registered! Sections have been selling out since bands launched and some have even closed registration to properly prepare for the production phase. However, see below a list of bands and their themes for 2025 *try your luck!*

• Costumes: Prices vary but usually range from $400 to $900 USD.
• What’s Included: Drinks, breakfast/lunch/dinner, snacks, road security, vibes

Costume Bands

Sechuns The Band, Wodnerland
Insane Carnival, The Imperium
Myst Carnival, EDEN
Xklusive Carnival, Legacy
Bacchanal Carnival, Shimmer City of Gold (Monday Mas ONLY)

FYI You can play Monday and Tuesday with two different bands as they provide options for this. Last year I did Monday mas with Myst Carnival and Tuesday with Insane Carnival. Check their sites for that option!

T-Shirt Mas Bands

Insane Carnival, Psyops
Myst Carnival, Temptations
Xklusive Carnival, Denim & White
Barefoot Promotions, The Garden of Time
Chattabox, Colours of the Flag
Massai Mas Band – Tribe

J’ouvert Bands

Insane Carnival, Dutty Mas – Colours of Dadli
Chattabox
Caut!on
Bouyon Madness Jouvert – The Riddim Street
Brewmasters Jouvert

Carnival Events

These are the official carnival events which are held in Carnival City (ARG) throughout the week. From queen shows, to calypso and soca competitions, and even sweet pan music. I encourage you to at least attend one of these events for the full Antigua carnival experience. The event calendar also includes a few private events (fetes).

Carnival Fetes

As Machel said, we deserve a pardyyyy! There’s a full range of events for you to choose from if you’re attending Antigua’s carnival. More options to pick from depending on how early you get here, but here’s a list of some local faves. Check out two6eight promotions for their summer fete calendar as well as promo on the different fetes.

Tickets for any events can be purchased using the Ticketing App, available on iOS and Android. Prices range from US $7 – US $150 and can be drinks inclusive, all inclusive, cooler fetes, or drinks for purchase.

Where to Stay?

Being close to St. John’s is key for easy access to events. Depending on your budget and vibe, here are some suggestions:

Hotels:

• Hawksbill Resort
• Siboney Beach Club
• Buccaneer Beach Club
• Ocean Point Beach Resort & Spa
• Trade Winds Hotel
• Royalton Antigua / Royalton Chic
• Blue Waters Resort & Spa
• Galley Bay Resort & Spa
• Hodges Bay Resort & Spa

Airbnb Hotspots:

• Falmouth/English Harbour (charming and scenic)
• Jolly Harbour (perfect for groups)
• Dickenson & Runaway Bay (beach + vibes)

QUICK INFO

Flights into V.C. Bird International Airport
Airlines with direct flights (British Airways, JetBlue, American Airlines, Virgin Atlantic, Air Canada, Frontier, United Caribbean Airlines, LIAT20, Sunrise)

Best way to get around? Rent a Car
Drive on the left side of the road
Google maps works pretty well
Taxis are reliable but can get pricey

TIPS:
Arrive 2-3 days early to enjoy events
Take post carnival rest days to enjoy the island
Pace yourself & hydrate!
Follow local Carnival pages for real-time updates (Antigua Carnival Hub, Two6Eight Promotions, Carnival in Antigua)

Ready to plan your Carnival adventure? Drop your questions in the comments or DM me for personalized tips. Let’s get you road-ready for Antigua Carnival 2025! ✨🚀🌸