Minors’ curfew likely to be relaxed for Carnival celebrations

With just a few more days to go until the official start of Antigua’s Carnival 2025, the curfew implemented by the government to deter minors from loitering on the streets after hours could be relaxed.

The news came from the Attorney General himself, Sir Steadroy ‘Cutie’ Benjamin.

He was speaking on state media.

“We are looking at it because we think this is a time for celebration. There are many shows that go over the time. We have to look at it and see how that can be relaxed for the season. It has to be done. We have to be realistic. There’s Teenage Pageant, the children shows, and party show, and we understand that. So, it will be relaxed for this particular season, but the law is still on the books and we intend to enforce it.

“We will keep the nation informed as to what we are doing,” Benjamin stated.

The curfew which was passed last year goes from 10pm-6am. Under this law, parents or guardians will face fines of up to XCD$5,000.00 if their children are found violating the curfew.

The new regulation, a recent amendment to the Small Charges Act, represents a crucial part of the government’s broader agenda to address violent crime and anti-social behaviour among young people.

While the AG is assessing this, many in the public are sharing their concerns on whether this move could incite violence among the youth during the festivities.

Antigua Carnival 2025 runs from July 25 to August 5 under the theme ‘It’s a Vibe’.