Antigua carnival is a major annual event celebrating the abolition of slavery on August 1, 1834. The festival is a ten-day celebration of colorful costumes, beauty pageants, talent shows, and good music. The nonstop revelry includes various major events, such as the Calypso Monarch competition of Calypsonians, the Panorama steel band contest, and the Parade of Bands, plus smaller festivities, local concerts, food fairs, and cultural shows.
The celebration began in 1957 as the replacement for the Old Time Christmas Festival, but some elements of the former still exist. In the modern era, the festivities take place from the last weekend in July until the first Tuesday of August.
One of the most popular things to do during the Carnival is to dress in elaborate masquerade outfits. These costumes are known as mas and are usually painstakingly crafted by hand, designed to accentuate the individual's physique while also showcasing their creativity. These outfits can range from plantation-style dresses and bonnets to witches, skeletons, soldiers, and majorettes.
Another must-see element of Carnival is the stilt dancers who perform in the streets. They are called Moko Jumbi, Jumpa-Ben, or Long Ghosts and wear long cylindrical masks with grotesque teeth illuminated by candlelight. They often carry a kettle drum or a 'boom pipe' made out of a plumbing joint.
Carnivalis a hugely popular event across the Caribbean, and Antigua is no exception.
During the Carnival, the island is filled with color and joy as the people take
to the streets to party.
The celebration begins on the Thursday before Emancipation Day and ends on Carnival Tuesday with a 'last lap' that continues until midnight. The final parade is a spectacular display of colored costumes and brass bands.
It is not uncommon for tourists to plan a holiday around the Carnival. The majority of hotels with luxury accommodations host pre-carnivalparties that are popular with locals as well as visitors. These include "Blue Jeans" (the name refers to a traditional dress that is worn by Antiguans at this time of year), "White Fete," and the infamous "Lions Den." The Lions Club also organizes a big rave called 'Red Eye,' which is a great way to get into the mood for the Carnival.
In addition to these popular activities, there are many smaller events that are held throughout the summer. These are a great opportunity for visitors to experience the real spirit of Carnival, which is celebrated by Antiguans all over the world.
The Antiguan Carnival is one of the Caribbean's most important festivals and is a huge event that has a strong community feel to it. This is due in part to the fact that it is a celebration of freedom and democracy. This is particularly important in Antigua and Barbuda, where emancipation from slavery was achieved more quickly than in most of the British Caribbean colonies.
Planning to experience the Antigua Carnival this year? Book an ocean view accommodation at Tamarind Hills by visiting our website.
