If you’re looking for a vibrant, unforgettable carnival experience, Antigua Carnival 2025 is your ticket to culture, celebration, and pure joy! Known as the “Caribbean’s Greatest Summer Festival,” this annual event is a blend of colorful costumes, pulsating music, and deeply rooted traditions. Whether you’re a seasoned carnival chaser or a first-timer, this guide will help you plan your Antigua Carnival adventure with ease.
When is Antigua Carnival?
Antigua Carnival 2025 will take place from Thursday, July 24th to Tuesday, August 5th, 2025. The highlight of the season, J’Ouvert and Parade of the Bands, typically happens on the final two days. However, the celebrations include pre-events, competitions, fetes, and other activities in the weeks leading up to the main carnival dates. To get the most out of your trip, plan to arrive a few days early to soak up all the excitement.
- To make the most of your experience, I suggest your travel dates be August 1 – August 6th.
- T-shirt mas is typically held the last Saturday in July.
- The parade dates are August 4 -5, 2025. On the 4th, Expect J’ouvert followed by Carnival Monday (in Monday Wear, see above photo), followed by Pretty Mas on the 5th in full costume.
Getting to Antigua Carnival
Getting to Antigua is straightforward, with V.C. Bird International Airport (ANU) serving as the main gateway. Here’s how you can make your way to this island paradise:
•Flights: Major airlines like American Airlines, British Airways, and Caribbean Airlines offer direct flights from North America, Europe, and other Caribbean islands. Book early to snag the best deals, especially as carnival season approaches.
•Travel Rewards: Use travel rewards programs, such as American Express Membership Rewards, to offset your travel costs. With proper planning, you can make your journey to Antigua more affordable. To learn how I offset my travel cost by using travel rewards, click here.
Where to Stay for Antigua Carnival
Antigua may be small but there are plenty of options for every budget and taste. I recommend you stay in St. John’s. Popular options include:
Costumes for Antigua Carnival
Playing mas is a must for anyone attending Antigua Carnival 2025. The mas bands offer stunning costumes, premium road experiences, and unforgettable memories. While band launches usually happen earlier in the year, here are some tips to help you choose:
•Costumes: Look for designs that resonate with your style and comfort level.
•Packages: Many bands offer all-inclusive packages, including drinks, food, and transportation.
•Vibes: Consider joining a band that matches your energy and party preferences. Social media is a great place to get a feel for each band’s atmosphere.
Bands to consider include:
Antigua Carnival Events
Planning your Antigua Carnival lineup starts with knowing the timeline of events. Antigua Carnival offers a packed schedule that kicks off as early as spring, featuring cultural highlights like T-Shirt Mas, Party Monarch, Calypso Monarch, Melting Pot, and DruesDay. The party scene is just as vibrant, with events like Blue Jeans, Rise, and Drink Til Ya Weak leading the charge. I didn’t attend a lot of parties in 2024, but I hear that the 268 Breakfast Party, Ripple X Tease, and Prickly in Pink are great choices. To stay updated on everything Antigua Carnival 2025, keep an eye on Antigua Festivals, Two6Eight, Top Shelf Events, and Ticketing Events for the full schedule.
Random Tidbits to Know about Antigua
Currency in Antigua is the Eastern Caribbean Dollar (XCD)
SIM cards are NOT available in the airport. You can get them from the following authorized retailers:
- Digicel Antigua and Barbuda: 20 XCD
- Flow Antigua (and Barbuda): 20 XCD
- APUA inet Mobile: 25
Taxis in Antigua are regulated and identified by “Taxi” on the license plate. Taxi drivers are also certified tour guides. You can obtain rates at your hotel.
In Antigua and Barbuda, power plugs and sockets (outlets) of type A and type B are used. The standard voltage is 230 V at a frequency of 60 Hz.
See Antigua and Barbuda
Antigua is such a beautiful Island country, so make sure you take some time out to see it!
I went on this amazing local food tour that was only a half day that left me stuffed.
There are other activities, such as RTV, Stingray Tours, and Historical Tours as well.
See you in Antigua!
Antigua Carnival is more than just a celebration; it’s an experience that immerses you in the island’s rich culture and welcoming spirit. From the moment you arrive to the last note of soca, you’ll be swept up in the joy and unity that defines this festival.
Start planning your Antigua Carnival 2025 adventure today, and get ready to wine your way through one of the Caribbean’s most iconic events. Secure your flights, book your accommodation, and keep an eye out for band launches—your unforgettable carnival journey awaits!
