Antigua and Barbuda seized the opportunity to showcase its tourism product, vibrant culture and world-renowned Carnival during this year’s Caribbean Week in New York, one of the region’s most important tourism marketing and networking events.

A delegation led by Tourism Minister Charles Fernandez joined regional tourism leaders, industry stakeholders and media representatives at the Caribbean Tourism Organization’s (CTO) annual event, held from June 1 to 5 under the theme “One Caribbean: Infinite Experiences.”

The Antigua and Barbuda team used the week-long event to promote the destination’s diverse tourism offerings while strengthening relationships with travel partners and media outlets in one of the country’s key source markets.

: L-R Dean Fenton, Director of Tourism, Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority-USA The Hon. Charles H. Fernández, Minister of Tourism, Civil Aviation, Transportation and Investment Senator the Hon. Angelica O’Donoghue, Government Relations Manager in the Ministry of Tourism, Transportation, Civil Aviation and Investment, Carnival dancers from Tropical Fete and Antiguan Steel Pan Drummer Johnny Gomes. Credit: Cessie Cerrato

Speaking during the event, Fernandez said Caribbean Week provides an important platform for destinations to collaborate while highlighting their individual strengths.

“It is an opportunity for us to collaborate as Caribbean destinations, while also sharing the unique story of Antigua and Barbuda with one of our most important source markets,” he said. “From our beaches and heritage to our cuisine, culture, and the unmatched energy of Antigua Carnival, we are proud to show travellers why our destination remains one of the Caribbean’s most compelling.”

The delegation participated in a packed schedule of ministerial meetings, tourism forums, industry discussions and media engagements. Fernandez also joined fellow regional tourism ministers in discussions focused on tourism growth, airlift development, sustainability and strategies to keep the Caribbean competitive in an evolving global tourism market.

One of the highlights of the week came when Antigua and Barbuda brought the excitement of Carnival to American television audiences through a live appearance on WPIX-TV in New York.

The segment featured Antiguan steel pan musician Johnny Gomes and Carnival performers from Tropical Fete, offering viewers a taste of Antigua Carnival 2026, which takes place from July 25 to August 4 under the theme “Feel the Rhythm.”

The colourful presentation showcased the music, energy and pageantry that have made Antigua Carnival one of the Caribbean’s premier summer festivals and encouraged travellers to experience the event firsthand.

Tourism officials also met with leading travel trade professionals and consumer media outlets throughout the week, providing updates on the destination’s tourism developments, accommodations, cultural attractions, culinary experiences and accessibility from North America.

Antigua and Barbuda also played a prominent role in supporting regional tourism leadership by serving as title sponsor of the Caribbean Women in Tourism Leadership Dinner and Awards.

The event honoured women making significant contributions to the tourism sector and highlighted the launch of the CTO Foundation’s new scholarship initiative, designed to support young women pursuing careers in tourism and hospitality.

Chief Executive Officer of the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority, Colin James, said regional cooperation remains vital to the continued success of Caribbean tourism.

“Caribbean tourism is at its best when we collaborate, innovate, and celebrate together,” James said. “Antigua and Barbuda is proud to support platforms that recognize our region’s leaders, open doors for the next generation, and showcase the culture that continues to inspire travellers from around the world.”

The week concluded with Antigua and Barbuda participating in the CTO Foundation’s Rum & Rhythm Benefit, where Antiguan chef Claude Lewis, winner of Food Network’s Chopped, and Antiguan-born mixologist Ralph John highlighted the country’s growing reputation as a culinary destination.

Guests sampled dishes and cocktails inspired by local flavours, providing another opportunity for Antigua and Barbuda to showcase its food, hospitality and culture to an international audience.

Caribbean Week is regarded as one of the Caribbean’s premier tourism events in North America, bringing together tourism ministers, executives, travel advisors, media representatives and industry partners to promote the region and strengthen collaboration among destinations.