Deputy Chair of the Festivals Commission, Senator Michael Freeland, has unveiled the full lineup for Antigua Carnival 2026, promising two weeks of non-stop events from July 25 to August 4. Here’s how the schedule is shaping up.

Deputy Chair of the Festivals Commission, Senator Michael Freeland, has unveiled the official lineup for Antigua Carnival 2026, outlining a packed calendar of competitions, concerts and traditional road events set to run from July 25 to August 4.

Presenting the schedule at the media launch, Freeland said organizers are building on the momentum of last year’s celebrations and inviting the public to “feel the rhythm” throughout what he described as two weeks of non-stop activity .

The 2026 programme begins with the official launch in April, followed by the start of Rhythm Fridays on May 29 and the opening of the Calypso tents . Calypso Monarch quarterfinals are set for June 26 and 27, with Party Monarch events and semifinals in early to mid-July .

Youth events will feature prominently, including the Mr. and Miss Teenage Pageant, Junior Calypso and Junior Party Monarch competitions . The Queen of Carnival Pageant is scheduled for July 21 .

Carnival City opens July 25, ushering in T-Shirt Mas, Junior Carnival, J’ouvert, Panorama, Party Monarch, Monday and Tuesday mas, and the traditional Parade of Bands and Last Lap .

Freeland encouraged locals and visitors alike to mark their calendars and prepare for what he said will be an expanded and energetic Carnival season.