The Antigua and Barbuda Festivals Commission (ABFC) has announced that it will merge the Carnival Opening Parade with the T-Shirt Mas scheduled for Saturday July 26.
This marks a change of heart by the Commissioner as it had earlier decided against having an opening parade for Carnival this year. However, it is believed that the decision to reverse course, is an indication that the Commission was responding to public sentiments regarding the opening parade. The decision not to have the opening parade was not a popular one with members of the public who saw it as part of the traditions of Carnival that ought to be maintained.
Consequently, the Festivals Commission has now announced the Grand Masters of Antigua Carnival 2025: they are the celebrated Hell’s Gate Steel Orchestra, commemorating 80 years of musical excellence, and veteran mas designer Chandy Lewis, marking 25 years of visionary artistry and design.
“In a major update to this year’s festivities, the Opening Parade will now be merged with T-Shirt Mas, creating one vibrant, unified experience to officially open Antigua Carnival 2025. The change is aimed at boosting overall visibility, improving logistics, and encouraging broader participation across the board,” the Festivals Commission stated in a media release.
Leading this historic parade will be Hell’s Gate Steel Orchestra, whose legacy as the oldest continuously running steelband in the world and five-time reigning Panorama champions is a source of national pride. Chandy Lewis, known for his innovative designs in Antigua and across the world, will also be honoured for his long-standing impact on mas making and Carnival development.
“This year’s celebration is a tribute to legacy, longevity, and the unbreakable spirit of our people,” said Hon. Daryll Matthew, Minister of Education, Sports and the Creative Industries. “By merging the Opening and T-Shirt Mas parades, we are creating greater space for cultural expression, youth engagement, and economic impact, especially for corporate partners who benefit from the heightened visibility.”
In addition to this year’s Grand Masters, the ABFC will also honour two legendary entertainers: Burning Flames, celebrating 40 years of shaping Caribbean music and previously serving as Grand Marshal, and the powerhouse vocalist Claudette “CP” Peters, marking 25 years of unmatched artistry and impact on the Antiguan stage.
With the theme “It’s A Vibe”, Antigua Carnival 2025 is shaping up to be an unforgettable celebration of icons, impact, and island pride.
