Minister of Sports and Creative Industries Dwayne George says preparations for Antigua and Barbuda’s 2026 Carnival are progressing well, with organisers already about 70 percent ready as work intensifies to transform the Antigua Recreation Grounds into Carnival City.

The minister made the assessment on Monday after touring the venue alongside Operations Lead for the Antigua and Barbuda Festivals Commission, Cleofoster Harris, to review the status of preparations for the country’s premier summer festival.

Following the walkthrough, George expressed satisfaction with the pace of work, saying organisers are well positioned to deliver what is being promoted as the biggest Carnival in the nation’s history.

“With all I’ve heard today, I realise that we are in a really good position, and I’m happy that we are prepared,” George 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.”

As Antigua and Barbuda prepares to celebrate the 69th edition of Carnival, George said major improvements are being made to enhance both performances and the overall patron experience.

Among the upgrades is a newly designed stage measuring nearly 100 metres in length, complemented by improved lighting and sound systems that are expected to elevate performances throughout the festival.

“The stage will give our artistes the opportunity to truly showcase their craft and demonstrate what Antigua and Barbuda has to offer,” the minister said.

George also commended the Antigua and Barbuda Festivals Commission, his ministry and corporate sponsors for working together to ensure preparations remain on schedule.

He noted that organisers are paying close attention not only to entertainment but also to key logistical areas, including security, sanitation and parking, to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for patrons.

The minister urged residents to fully embrace the country’s cultural celebration, saying the continued success of Carnival depends on public 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.”

Encouraging both residents and visitors to attend this year’s festivities, George said Antigua and Barbuda has earned a reputation for hosting one of the Caribbean’s leading summer festivals and expressed confidence that Carnival 2026 will build on that legacy.

“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.