Minister of Sports and Creative Industries Dwayne George has expressed confidence that Antigua and Barbuda is well on track to host what organisers hope will be the country’s biggest Carnival yet, following a walkthrough of the Antigua Recreation Grounds on Monday.
Led by Cleofoster Harris, Operations Lead for the Antigua and Barbuda Festivals Commission, the minister toured the venue, which is currently being transformed into Carnival City, to assess the progress of preparations for the country’s premier summer festival.
Following the inspection, George said he was encouraged by the level of readiness, revealing that preparations are approximately 70 percent complete.
“With all I’ve heard today, I realise that we are in a really good position, and I’m happy that we are prepared,” the minister said. “We have about 70 percent ready for Carnival 2026, and the level of excitement that I’m feeling already—I can already feel the rhythm.”
Minister George appealed to the public to actively support the nation’s cultural celebration, stressing that Carnival’s continued success depends on community participation.
“Our culture can’t survive unless we support our culture in person, with our families,” he said. “I want to thank the Festivals Commission, the Government of Antigua and Barbuda, our sponsors, and the people of Antigua and Barbuda for continuously making Carnival a success.”
As Antigua and Barbuda prepares to celebrate its 69th Carnival, the Minister of Sports and Creative Industries said organisers are determined to deliver the largest and most memorable festival in the event’s history.
He highlighted several significant upgrades, including what he described as a modern stage spanning nearly 100 metres, along with enhanced lighting and sound systems designed to elevate performances throughout the festivities.
“The stage will give our artistes the opportunity to truly showcase their craft and demonstrate what Antigua and Barbuda has to offer,” George said.
He also praised the support of sponsors and the collaborative efforts of the Festivals Commission and his ministry in ensuring preparations remain on schedule.
Beyond entertainment, Minister Dwayne George said considerable attention has been given to improving the overall experience for patrons, noting that security, sanitation and parking arrangements are all progressing well.
Confident that Antigua and Barbuda remains home to one of the Caribbean’s premier festivals, the minister encouraged residents and visitors alike to attend the celebrations and help maintain the country’s reputation as a leading Carnival destination.
“Let’s make this a major success. Antigua and Barbuda has one of the greatest summer festivals in the region. Let’s continue to live up to that name and continue making Antigua and Barbuda the example for other countries to follow,” he said.
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