Antigua Carnival is 365 beaches energy iron bands good food and that Wadadli spirit on the road.
What to Expect
Antigua Carnival is ten days of music, pageants and road march — the most accessible large-scale Caribbean carnival for first-timers on a budget. The T-Shirt Mas option means you can participate fully without the high costume prices of Trinidad or Barbados, and the island's beaches are world-class.
Ten-day festival: pageants, Panorama, Soca Monarch and Road March
T-Shirt Mas sections available — the most affordable way to play mas
Road March on the Monday and Tuesday of the first week of August
Smaller island — easy to navigate without a car for most carnival events
Places to Stay
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Ride-Hailing Apps
inDrive
Available in Antigua. Helpful during carnival weekend when demand for taxis spikes.
Fetes & Events
Things To Do
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Getting There
V.C. Bird International Airport
Getting Around
Buses run from the East and West Bus Stations in St John's — West serves the south and the beaches, East the villages toward the airport side.
The island is only 108 square miles, so most journeys are under 45 minutes.
Buses stop running early in the evening and barely operate on Sundays, so plan your return before you set off.
Driving is on the left and a temporary Antiguan permit is required with your own licence.
Taxis are unmetered with published government rates — ask before boarding.
Typical Costs from the UK
Estimates only — prices vary by airline, timing and section choice. Use the budget calculator to build your own breakdown.
When to Book
Antigua Carnival mas band registration typically opens February–April for an August festival — relaxed by Caribbean standards. Flights are best booked 3–4 months ahead. The Soca Monarch and Panorama competitions are worth attending — tickets are usually available closer to the dates. Book accommodation for the final Road March weekend at least 3 months in advance as St John's limited hotel stock fills quickly.
Plan This Carnival
🎭 20 Jul – 3 Aug 2027
MUAs & Photographers for Carnival
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