Carnival hits the Caribbean once again. By the end of July, the streets of Antigua will flood with feather-wearing dancers. 

Saturday, July 28th marks the official start to the 11 day celebration. A jam session at Joe Mike’s hotel  kicks things off early on Thursday. More dancing and costumes continue into the weekend.

While Carnival happens all over the island, throughout the year, Antigua and Barbuda’s is a little different. Their carnival replaced the Old Time Christmas Festival in 1957, with hopes of increasing tourism. They saw how much fun other islands were having. Drawing massive crowds to the rowdy occasion. Mostly, on the island of Trinidad. And although they gave in to the party, traces of the Christmas Festival remain.

They are especially evident in the masquerade and steel bands. The highland fling was once the most common Christmas Festival dance. Now, men donning scottish kilts and masks made of wire, share the stage in the modern celebration.

There are many events to look forward to, like the crowning of the Queen and J’ouvert. More dancing, drinking, and over-the-top glitter.

Stay tune for more.