It’s Official… Carnival 2016 Is Here.

The nation’s greatest summer festival was launched on Wednesday, in the midst of Antigua Sailing Week.

The sights and sounds of Carnival took over Nelson’s Dockyard with performances from calypso legends, soca artistes, pannists, dancers and more.

Chairman of the Festivals Commission Maurice Merchant said one of the new features this year will be an iron band jam around St John’s, set for a day ahead of the grand opening glow parade.

Another addition, he said, will be a king and queen of the band competition which will feature the spectacular designs of the costume builders. This is to take place ahead of the Calypso Show on Carnival Sunday.
Meantime, the launch was not short on entertainment. Here’s a look back at some highlights.

Carnival 2016 runs from July 22 to August 2 under the theme, “Experience Greatness.” Tickets will go on sale next month, and the commission will be introducing e-ticketing.