The Ultimate Guide to Antigua Carnival – By A Local
What is the Antigua Carnival?
We’re a family of four that live in Antigua over the winter months and love island life. For the past three years, we’ve been returning because Carl has been working on the yachts there. Whilst we live on the island we love to try, see and do as many of the activities and experiences that the island has to offer.
Antigua Carnival is a must-do experience that brings travellers from around the world to the island. We love it as it’s more than just a party; because it’s a cultural extravaganza deeply rooted in the island’s history and heritage. We’ll discuss the festivities, uncover the secrets of crafting the perfect carnival costume, and explore the rhythm-infused events. You’ll find yourself immersed in the unique spirit that defines this annual celebration.
So, fasten your seatbelts and prepare to be swept away by the infectious energy of Antigua Carnival.
Why Does Antigua Have A Carnival?
Antigua’s colonial history is marked by the dominance of sugar cane. In the 17th century, the British established sugar cane plantations, which sadly required a constant supply of labour. Then this led to the introduction of African slaves to Antigua, which continued until the slave trade was stopped in 1807.
On August 1st, 1834 the British abolished slavery. In a unique decision, Antigua chose to grant immediate and full emancipation to all slaves, foregoing the customary four-year ‘apprenticeship’ or waiting period.
To commemorate the abolition of slavery in Antigua there is a public holiday, Emancipation Day, on the first Monday in August. Antigua Carnival is a celebration of the end of slavery.
How To Get Ready For Antigua Carnival?
As the rhythmic beats of soca music echo in anticipation, it’s time to start thinking about preparing for the grand spectacle that is Antigua Carnival. Immersing yourself in the vibrant atmosphere requires a bit of planning and a touch of local insight, which we can help with!
At Carnival, there is a selection of different events and parades that run over the space of just under two weeks from the end of July to the beginning of August.
Before the main events, there are lots of pre-carnival activities such as calypso shows, parties and cultural exhibitions. You can also go to costume launches to see the unveiling of the elaborate costumes that will be worn on the streets during the Parade of the Bands. There is a lot to do and see!
Before you arrive at Antigua Carnival you’ll want to know which events you’re going to because you’ll want prepare ahead of time. You’ll need to especially consider this if you decide to join a band. The four main events are:
T-Shirt Mas – as the name suggests, this is the day that everyone wears customised T-shirts
J’ouvert Morning – the early dawn of the Monday morning of Emancipation Day
Monday Carnival Parade -this is the parade that follows J’ouvert Morning and sees everyone wearing their Monday Wear (we’ll tell you more about that later!)
Tuesday Carnival Parade – the main parade where dancers wear their super extravagant costumes
How To Get Involved At Antigua Carnival?
When you go to Antigua Carnival you can decide to either watch from the sidelines or join a band. If you decide to watch from the sidelines you can soak up the atmosphere as the dancers and floats pass by. Or, you can get fully involved and join a band.
To get involved in Antigua Carnival you should join a local “band” that prepares and heads to Carnival together. They’ll pick a theme, arrange costumes and look after themselves with food, drink and entertainment for the day. You should expect to pay a fee to join the band.
There are three different ways that you can join a band depending on which days you want to go to Antigua Carnival and your budget.
1. T-Shirt Mas
Most of our local friends opt for T-Shirt Mas as it’s one of the cheaper options as you don’t need to get an elaborate costume. You join a band and are given a band t-shirt because the idea is that you all customise your t-shirt. For example, you might cut the sleeves off and turn it into a vest top.
The average price to join a band for T-shirt Mas is US$50-100. You’ll get a t-shirt, drinks, food/snacks, and entertainment on the road.
Some of the top bands are:
📍 Insane Carnival – www.insanecarnival.com
📍 Myst Carnival – www.mystcarnival.com
📍 Barefoot Promotions – www.barefootcarnival.com
2. J’ouvert Morning
This is the main celebration on the Monday of the Antigua Carnival to celebrate the end of slavery in 1834. The parade for J’ouvert Morning starts at 3 am and goes on until 10 am.
On this day those joining a band tend to wear their “Monday Wear” which for women is usually along the lines of a bikini or cut-out swimsuit. Think “less is more” when putting together your Monday Wear. If you need inspiration then there are lots of designers who specialise in Monday Wear outfits.
The average price to join a band is from US$20-90. You’ll get a goodie bag containing a bottle, bandana, and other road necessities. Plus a t-shirt, drinks, food/snacks and entertainment on the road.
Some of the top bands are:
3. Carnival Monday and Tuesday Parades
Most bands on the Monday of Antigua Carnival will offer a Monday Wear outfit. After that, on Tuesday they will then be fully adored in their costumes (what some islands refer to as “pretty mas”).
Costumes range from US$350-1,200 depending on what add-ons you select for your costume. Each band normally has its specific goodie bags, plus you’ll get lunch/snacks, drinks and entertainment.
Some of the top bands are:
How To Make The Most Of Your Visit To Antigua Carnival?
- Get familiar with the songs
- Pace yourself, don’t expect to do all of the events and all of the parties
- Keeping hydrated is very important – it’s summer so it’ll be hot. Plus if you’re joining in the party atmosphere and drinking alcohol then you’ll need to counter the effects of that as well in the heat.
- Dress for comfort, nothing makes you not enjoy it more than feeling uncomfortable in what you’re wearing. Lots of people choose to wear T-shirts.
- Drink responsibly and know your limits. Yes, you want to have fun but you must always be aware of your surroundings.
- Stay close to town, everything happens around the vicinity of St. John’s.
- Come to have fun and don’t let anyone else’s experience be your experience.
Can You Take Kids To Antigua Carnival?
Yes, you can! One of the pre-carnival events is Junior Mas. During Junior Mas local school kids are the main focus and it’s a lot tamer than the main parades.
If you decide to go to the larger events then you’ll need to consider that the parades are very busy and noisy places. Remember that the parades are made up of a busy crowd of revellers who likely started drinking in the morning and have been partying all day long.
When Should You Arrive For Antigua Carnival
To make the most of your trip we’d recommend arriving a few days before Antigua Carnival begins. While the festival typically takes place during the end of July and the beginning of August, planning your visit around these dates will help make it an unforgettable experience.
Carnival Kickoff Events:
Arrive a few days before the official start to catch pre-Carnival events, such as calypso shows and costume launches.
Main Carnival Days:
The peak of the festivities usually falls on the first Monday and Tuesday of August, featuring J’ouvert Morning and the Parade of the Bands.
Post-Carnival Celebrations:
Extend your stay to take part in post-Carnival events to Cool Down and soak in the lingering spirit of the celebration. Plus after all of the excitement you might want to relax on a beach!
Where To Stay For Antigua Carnival?
You should remember to book your accommodations well in advance because during the Carnival season, it sell out quickly. Antigua Carnival happens in the capital of St John’s so ideally you’ll want to secure accommodation that is nearby. However, if you can’t then don’t worry, as everywhere on the island is less than 45 minutes drive away.
Here are a couple of our recommendations:
📍 Luxury: Jumby Bay Island, Long Island – this private island resort is the most exclusive in Antigua and Barbuda.
📍Mid Range: Royalton Antigua – we love this resort as it’s great for families and has a cool swimming pool with slides for kids.
📍 Budget: Antigua Yacht Club Marina and Resort – perfect for a short stay if you plan to explore the island. It’s a good little resort but it doesn’t have a pool the beach is just a 5-minute walk away.
How To Cool Down After Antigua Carnival?
“Cool Down” is the first few days after the Antigua Carnival. Essentially it’s the term the locals use for the time it takes to recover from all of the partying of Carnival. So, you can choose to Cool Down (recover from your hangover!) however you’d like, just remember to add a few days to your stay in Antigua.
Some top ideas for Cool Down are:
📍 Head to a beach to swim and relax
📍 Buy a day pass to a local resort for some pool time
📍 Take a day out and head to Barbuda for the day
📍 Take a tour of the island
Final Thoughts On Antigua Carnival
Going to Antigua Carnival is an amazing experience full of music, dancing and revelry. Before you visit you should do a little planning ahead because if you want to get involved and join a band you need to sign up early. Joining a band for any of the days is the ultimate way to experience Antigua Carnival.
