Antigua and Barbuda’s Minister responsible for Creative Industries, Dwayne George, has called on revelers to celebrate responsibly as the country officially launched Antigua Carnival 2026 with the Opening Parade and T-Shirt Mas on Saturday.

Addressing hundreds of patrons gathered for the start of the nation’s premier summer festival, Minister George encouraged everyone to embrace the excitement of Carnival while making safety a top priority throughout the celebrations.

“I want you to put safety as a priority going forward. I want you to jam and celebrate, but to celebrate respectfully and responsibly,” George said.

Welcoming residents, visitors and members of the Antiguan and Barbudan diaspora, the minister declared the festival officially open and invited everyone to immerse themselves in the spirit of Carnival.

“To the good people of Antigua and Barbuda and those from our diaspora who are visiting for Carnival, we are ready; we are feeling the rhythm. Let’s get the party started,” he said. “Antigua and Barbuda Carnival 2026 is now open, open for jamming. Let’s get the party rolling. We’re ready; feel the rhythm.”

His remarks were followed by the highly anticipated Opening Parade and T-Shirt Mas, one of the signature events that traditionally marks the official start of the annual festivities.

Prime Minister Gaston Browne was also among those participating in the celebrations. He described the opening as a strong start to the festival and echoed the minister’s call for patrons to celebrate peacefully and respectfully.

The Carnival celebrations continue throughout the week with a full schedule of events. Junior Carnival, originally scheduled for Sunday, has been postponed until Wednesday after heavy early morning showers rendered conditions unsuitable for the event.

The festivities resume on Thursday with the Caribbean Meltin’ Pot show, followed by the Calypso Monarch Competition on Friday. Panorama takes center stage on Saturday before the Party Monarch Competition on Sunday.

The festival culminates with the colourful Parade of Bands and the Judging of Troupes and Groups on Carnival Monday and Tuesday, August 3 and 4, bringing Antigua Carnival 2026 to its traditional grand finale.