Antigua Carnival 2026 has officially launched with the theme “Feel the Rhythm.” Organizers promise energy, culture, and nonstop celebration.

The festival will run from July 24 to August 4, 2026. Events will unfold across St. John’s and Carnival City. As a result, residents and visitors can expect vibrant street parades and packed shows.

The Antigua and Barbuda Festivals Commission hosted the launch. Officials gathered at the State Insurance Conference Room to reveal the full schedule.

Moreover, Daryll Matthew praised Carnival’s cultural power. He said the festival reflects emancipation, identity, and creativity. He added that this year’s theme captures true Antiguan spirit.

Meanwhile, Senator Michael Freeland outlined key dates. He confirmed that pre-events will begin in April. Therefore, the celebration will build momentum for months.

Below is the official schedule.

Pre-Events

• April 11 – First pre-event at Rising Sun Grounds
• May 29 – Rhythm Friday (Redcliffe Street); Calypso Tent Opens (Jack Idle)
• May 30 – Calypso Tent (Jack Idle)
• June 5 – Rhythm Friday; Calypso Tent
• June 6 – Calypso Tent
• June 11 – Jam Corner (Redcliffe Street)
• June 12 – Calypso Tent
• June 13 – Calypso Tent
• June 19 – Calypso Tent
• June 20 – Pan in De City; Calypso Tent
• June 25 – Jam Corner
• June 26 – Rhythm Friday; Calypso Monarch Quarter-Finals
• June 27 – Calypso Monarch Quarter-Finals
• July 3 – Party Monarch Quarter-Finals
• July 12 – Aunty Claudette’s Kiddies Fete
• July 16 – Calypso Monarch Semi-Finals
• July 17 – Party Monarch Semi-Finals
• July 18 – Mr. & Miss Teenage Pageant
• July 19 – Junior Calypso; Junior Soca
• July 21 – Queen of Carnival

Main Events

• July 24 – Face Off
• July 25 – Opening of Carnival City; T-Shirt Mas
• July 26 – Junior Carnival Parade; Good Morning D’Inclusive
• July 27 – Rhythm Court; Band-Meet-Band (Junior)
• July 28 – Patrice Roberts: I Am Woman; Always Us
• July 30 – Melting Pot; Drink Till Ya Weak
• July 31 – Calypso Monarch; Watch Night
• August 1 – Panorama; Rise; Carnival Dreamz
• August 2 – Party Monarch; D Breakfast Fete; Why Not Escape
• August 3 – J’Ouvert; Monday Mas
• August 4 – Parade of Bands; Last Lap

In short, Antigua Carnival 2026 promises rhythm, pride, and celebration at every turn.