Planning for the 70th anniversary of Antigua Carnival in 2027 should begin immediately, Cabinet has instructed the Antigua and Barbuda Festivals Commission.

The Government wants the milestone celebration positioned as a major national, regional and international cultural event.

Cabinet has specifically called for a full and engaging programme without blank days in the Carnival schedule.

The Commission has been asked to ensure that residents and visitors have activities and entertainment options throughout the festival period.

Regional and international marketing is also expected to begin early as Antigua and Barbuda seeks to attract more visitors and significantly expand Carnival’s global profile.

Cabinet said the anniversary presents an important opportunity to showcase the country’s music, mas, pageantry, calypso, soca and wider creative industries.

The Festivals Commission has been encouraged to build on the successes and lessons of Carnival 2026 and engage stakeholders early in the planning process.

The Government views Carnival as both the country’s premier cultural festival and an important economic and tourism product that creates opportunities for artistes, musicians, designers, vendors and promoters.

Carnival 2027, being promoted as “Legendary 70,” is scheduled to run from July 20 to August 3, 2027.