Junior Party Monarch Competition invigorated by Oasis Water Title Sponsorship (photo by ABFC)
Thu. July 3rd, 2025 – St. John’s, Antigua…
The Antigua and Barbuda Festivals Commission (ABFC) is proud to announce that new life has been invigorated into the Junior Party Monarch Competition with the recent Title Sponsorship by Oasis Water. This partnership has played a pivotal role in elevating the competition to the official schedule of Antigua Carnival 2025.
The 2025 edition promises to be a high-energy, highly contested showdown as young soca artistes battle to dethrone reigning champions Ruez (Groovy Monarch) and Jai’lilah (Jumpy Monarch). With a record number of registrations in both categories, the stage is set for an unforgettable youth showcase.
As the ABFC finalizes plans for this year’s event, the Commission acknowledges the tremendous growth the Junior Party Monarch has experienced over the years. The impressive registration numbers for both the Groovy and Jumpy categories in 2025 reflect the competition’s growing popularity and cultural significance.
To accommodate this growth and ensure optimal preparation for the young performers, the event has been rescheduled to Monday, 28th July 2025, starting at 5:00 PM at Carnival City. This new date and earlier start time were carefully chosen to give junior artists the time and the platform they deserve.
“Having both Junior Competitions back-to-back presents challenges for those competing in both Junior Calypso and Party Monarch,” said Sen. Michael Freeland, Deputy Chair of the ABFC. “We want to showcase our youth at their best, energized and ready to deliver first-class performances. The earlier start time is a decision made solely in the interest of our children and their well-being.”
Newly appointed Sub-Committee Chair Mr. Trevaughn Weston, a long-serving member of the Junior Party Monarch team, added: “From all indications, the Junior Party Monarch promises to be a dynamic highlight on the Carnival calendar. With performers aged 8 to 17 showcasing original compositions, choreography, and stage presence in both Groovy and Jumpy categories, this event is a true celebration of youth talent and creativity.”
In tandem with this exciting development, the ABFC proudly welcomes Oasis Water as a Bronze Sponsor and the Official Water of Antigua Carnival 2025. Their multi-tiered sponsorship includes:
- Title Sponsorship of the Oasis Junior Party Monarch Competition
- Presenting Sponsorship of the Children’s Carnival, a vibrant celebration of youth culture and creativity
- Exclusive Water Provider for all official Carnival events, ensuring hydration stations and branded water distribution across venues
“We are excited to welcome Oasis Water as a key Carnival partner,” said Ambassador Elizabeth Makhoul. “Their support at multiple levels highlights the importance of this sponsorship, marking a noteworthy collaboration in making our Carnival a memorable and inclusive experience for all ages. It is corporate citizens like Oasis Water that make Antigua Carnival the Caribbean’s Greatest Summer Festival.”
The Hon. Daryll S. Matthew, Minister of Education, Sports, and Creative Industries, added: “Elevating the Junior Party Monarch to our official schedule not only recognizes the outstanding talent of our youth, but it also affirms our commitment to investing in the cultural and artistic future of Antigua and Barbuda. We are especially pleased to welcome Oasis Water on board as a multi-tier sponsor helping to bring this vision to life.”
The Antigua and Barbuda Festivals Commission invites everyone to mark their calendars for Monday, 28th July 2025, and come out to support the rising stars of soca at the Oasis Water Junior Party Monarch Competition.
Antigua Carnival 2025 – Itz A Vibe!
What a great partnership! Sponsoring youth events shows real community care. Oasis Water, thank you!
From costumes to lyrics, these kids pour their hearts into their performances. So proud this event is finally getting the attention it deserves
From ages 8 to 17 and already writing, choreographing, and performing? The new competition date gives them the space they deserve. Monday the 28th can’t come fast enough.
I’m happy to see the support that the youth are getting