Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority’s Director of Tourism for the Caribbean and Latin America, Charmaine Spencer, said the tourism push began early in the year. “From as early as February, we ramped up advertising and on-the-ground activations targeting key audiences across markets, with the goal of keeping Antigua and Barbuda top of mind for the summer carnival season.”

Running from July 25 to August 5 under the theme ‘Itz A Vibe’, this year’s carnival promises twelve days of nonstop music, mas, and culture. The 2025 edition is also marked by major anniversaries, including 80 years of Hell’s Gate Steel Orchestra, 40 years of Burning Flames, and 25 years of Claudette “CP” Peters.

According to the Antigua and Barbuda Festivals Commission, highlights on the packed schedule include T-Shirt Mas on July 26, the Burning Flames anniversary concert on July 30, and the Caribbean Melting Pot and Watchnight Gathering on July 31. Panorama takes place on August 2, followed by Party Monarch on August 3, and traditional J’ouvert, Carnival Monday, and Carnival Tuesday mas on August 4 and 5. The season wraps up with Last Lap festivities in the streets of St. John’s on the evening of August 5.

In response to the growing travel interest, American Airlines has added a flight from Miami between July 25 and July 28. Caribbean Airlines will run a special service from Toronto to Antigua on July 31, catering to diaspora travelers. Regional carrier LIAT 20 is also offering a 25% airfare discount for travel to Antigua between July 13 and August 12, with the promo code VIBE25, bookable until August 4.

To further drive interest, the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority and LIAT 20 held a five-day promotional roadshow in Trinidad and Tobago in early July. The delegation, which included tourism officials and LIAT 20 representatives, engaged with media, travel agents, and consumers through interviews, meetings, and pop-up events.

“There was a real buzz in Trinidad. Antigua and Barbuda is a top Caribbean destination for the Trinidad traveller and mall-goers had numerous inquiries for the team,” said Maria Blackman, the Tourism Authority’s Marketing Communications Manager. “We saw a strong interest in Antigua Carnival, and the destination overall, with persons asking about places to stay, and special offers.”

Blackman added that the ongoing campaign with LIAT 20 is giving travelers “even more of an incentive” to experience the carnival and enjoy the country’s famous beaches afterward.

In anticipation of increased arrivals, the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority, the Antigua and Barbuda Festivals Commission, and the Antigua and Barbuda Airport Authority are preparing for a festive welcome for incoming visitors.