Travellers arriving at V.C. Bird International Airport this week were greeted with lively celebrations ahead of Antigua Carnival.

The sweet sounds of steelpan and the iron band filled the terminal, while upbeat soca music and colourful cultural performers added to the vibrant atmosphere. The energetic welcome was organised by teams from the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority, the Festivals Commission, the Airport Authority, and the Ministry of Tourism, Civil Aviation, Transportation and Investment, alongside partners LIAT Air and APUA.

The festivities marked the official start of the much-anticipated carnival season, setting the tone for the weekend’s main events.

Antigua Carnival reaches a peak this weekend with the Panorama and Party Monarch competitions scheduled for Saturday and Sunday. The celebrations will continue into the following week with the J’ouvert street party, followed by the Carnival Monday and Tuesday parades.

The annual carnival is a major cultural event for Antigua and Barbuda, attracting visitors from around the world and showcasing the island’s rich heritage through music, dance and vibrant costumes.