The Antigua and Barbuda Festivals Commission (ABFC) officially launched the contestants for the highly anticipated 2026 Queen of Carnival Competition during the inaugural broadcast of Carnival Pulse on Friday, June 5, 2026.

Produced by the Point Broadcasting Network, Carnival Pulse is Antigua Carnival’s newest weekly television programme, bringing viewers the latest Carnival news, exclusive interviews, contestant features, promotional activities, event highlights, music, and entertainment updates. The programme promises to provide regular pulse checks on everything Antigua Carnival 2026.

The highlight of the evening was the official unveiling and sashing ceremony of the seven delegates who will compete for the coveted Queen of Carnival crown. Each contestant was proudly presented by her sponsor and officially sashed with the support of the reigning Queen of Carnival, Ms. ACB Caribbean Kia Kirwan, who joined sponsors on stage in welcoming the delegates into this year’s competition.

The delegates competing for the title of Queen of Carnival 2026 are:
• Denesha Samuel – Miss LIAT Air
• Kenesha James – Miss AllMart
• Queenela Williams – Miss Antigua Port Authority
• Christine Powell – Miss ACB Caribbean
• Shavessa Gasper – Miss Exotic Antigua
• Aaliyah Taylor – Miss Cool & Smooth
• Zaine Frederick – Miss Furniture Gallery

Minister with responsibility for Carnival, Hon. Dwayne George, “Congratulations to each of our delegates. As you embark on this remarkable journey, remember that each of you is already a queen in my eyes. Carry yourselves with confidence, grace, and pride as you represent your sponsors, your communities, and our nation.”

Chairperson of the Antigua and Barbuda Festivals Commission, Ambassador Elizabeth Makhoul, “We are delighted to welcome our new sponsors to the Queen of Carnival family and sincerely thank our returning sponsors for their continued partnership. Your investment demonstrates confidence in the vision of the Commission and in the development of one of Antigua Carnival’s most prestigious platforms for young women.”

Sub-Chairman of the Queen of Carnival Committee, Dr. Eldean Eudelle, shared the vision for this year’s production, “This year’s production, Rhythm of a Queen, will celebrate the many rhythms embodied by women, strength, leadership, culture, elegance, resilience, transformation, and purpose. Our seven delegates are more than contestants; they are ambassadors of grace and confidence. We encourage them to embrace this journey, carry their culture with pride, and allow their unique rhythm to shine.”

The Antigua and Barbuda Festivals Commission invites the public to support the delegates on Tuesday, July 21, 2026, when Carnival City comes alive with an unforgettable evening of grace, beauty and intelligence. Show time is 8:00 p.m. Tickets for reserved seating are EC$50.00, and for the stands EC$30.00. Where every rhythm tells a story and one queen will rise above the rest.