The Caribbean is opening up and welcoming visitors, anxious to make up for the last 2 years of inactivity. In Antigua and Barbuda alone they have seen more arrivals in April and May 2022 than in the same months in 2019 – which happened to be a record year for tourism in the country.
What better way to celebrate a return to normal than with Carnival! Have you had the chance to experience Carnival in the Caribbean? These legendary festivals have been a prime event for visitors from around the world and locals alike prior to the pandemic and now finally return this summer after a two-year hiatus.
Carnival, in all its elements, has not been held since the early days of the pandemic but many islands are planning an epic return this Summer. Normally held in the days before Lent, the islands are kicking off this summer with Carnival comebacks and will resume a normal schedule next year. They’re set to be bigger and better than ever – after all they’ve got some time to make up for.
A few of the islands where you can experience Carnival this year:
- Trinidad and Tobago is making preparations for Carnival in February 2023 but will have costume and band launch parties this August 2022 to give revelers a taste of what’s to come next February.
- St Lucia Carnival began this June but the main events take place July 12 – 16th with an exciting, fun-filled two-day street parade of live bands and DJ music, stunning Carnival costumes and the joyous and energetic revelry typical of Caribbean carnivals.
- Barbados July 27 to August 1, the festival is back with all of its familiar parties and competitions culminating with its Grand Kadooment, a one-day parade through the streets of Bridgetown.
- Jamaica Carnival will begin on Friday, July 1, ending with the road march in Kingston on July 10. Now after a 2 year hiatus, this year’s Carnival, with its high energy, vibrant and colorful celebrations filled with reggae, calypso and soca music is set to be one of the biggest in years.
- Bahamas Junkanoo! Celebrated from Boxing Day 12/26 until New Year’s Day 01/01, it is one of the best known Carnival’s in the Caribbean. Primarily taking place in Nassau, many of the Out islands will have their own celebrations. On the weekend throughout this summer you can experience Junkanoo Festivities in preparation for December.
- Antigua & Barbuda July 27 – August 2. Pre Carnival festivities begin on July 22 and the actual Carnival begins on Wednesday July 27. It’s a celebration of emancipation, dating back to when slavery was abolished in 1834, with a twelve-day festival of colorful costumes, beauty pageants, talent shows and especially music.
- Grenada April 29th – August 13. Known as the Spice Isle for is large role in the export of various spices, especially nutmeg. Carnival in Grenada is called SpiceMas and is a celebration of their spice history, rich culture and the end of slavery on the island. This year, 2022, festivities are beginning in April and events will take place throughout July but the main events are on Aug 8-9.
Whether you’re looking for the excitement and parties of the Carnival season or just want to find a beach to relax on with a cold drink, the Caribbean is ready and has exactly what you need after being cooped up for the past 2 years.
Steph's Treks Travel Agency 