With just weeks to go before the start of Antigua’s summer festival, Cabinet officials say preparations for Carnival 2025 are well underway—and early indicators suggest a record turnout.

During Wednesday’s post-Cabinet media briefing, Director General in the Office of the Prime Minister, Maurice Merchant, said bumper attendance is expected at all major events, with local hotels already reporting a 90 percent increase in occupancy for the period.

“Caribbean Airlines has scheduled two additional flights out of Trinidad for the season, while American Airlines now operates three daily arrivals from Miami,” Merchant announced, crediting mass troop promotions in North America for driving the surge in visitors.

He added that the transformed Antigua Recreation Grounds—also known as Carnival City—is being readied to host the festivities. Culture Minister Daryll Matthew assured Cabinet that all systems are in place for a “safe, culturally rich and exciting Carnival.”

Carnival 2025 officially kicks off later this month and includes a packed calendar of music, mas, and cultural events drawing performers and revelers from across the diaspora.

Officials say the increased visitor numbers and airlift represent a welcome boost for the tourism and entertainment sectors, following years of pandemic-related disruptions.