The Antigua and Barbuda Festivals Commission (ABFC) has announced the successful completion of a new state-of-the-art stage and roof system at Carnival City, marking a significant milestone in preparations for Antigua Carnival 2026 — and one that organisers say is running well ahead of schedule.
The new stage measures up to 115 feet long by 50 feet wide, currently configured at 105 by 50 feet, making it one of the largest and most versatile staging systems in the Eastern Caribbean.
Prime Minister Hon. Gaston Browne recently conducted a walkthrough of Carnival City and expressed satisfaction with the progress. "This goes beyond Carnival. We are building out the creative industries that can make our people competitive in a global society," he said, adding that the stage will also serve major national events, including the upcoming CHOGM Super Concert.
Minister of Creative Industries and Carnival Hon. Dwayne George praised the team behind the effort. "I am so proud and happy to be working alongside my ABFC team. It is a solid, competent team. The amount of work that goes on behind the scenes to deliver Antigua Carnival, the Caribbean's Greatest Summer Festival, as a world-class production, truly touches my heart," he said.
ABFC Chairperson Ambassador Elizabeth Makhoul confirmed the project is tracking ahead of projections. "I am very pleased to report that we are well ahead of schedule with the building out of Carnival City. The stage and roof are complete, and our next focus is enhancing the overall venue in keeping with the Prime Minister's vision for the space," she said.
The stage and roof were erected by Sound 2000, with local technicians receiving hands-on training throughout the installation. Managing Director Earl "Churchie" York described the structure as a regional game-changer. "Antigua can boast of having the largest and most modern stage and roof system in the Eastern Caribbean. Its unique design allows it to be configured into three different sizes while keeping speaker towers, screens, motor walls and technical infrastructure integrated under the roof. With proper maintenance, this investment can serve Antigua for the next 10 to 15 years. Antigua is leading the region," York said.
Over the weekend, the ABFC hosted a comprehensive site walkthrough with key stakeholders, including the Prime Minister, the Minister of Carnival, ABFC board and team members, the Director and Deputy Director from the Ministry of Works, and the Venue Manager of the Antigua Recreation Grounds. During the visit, Prime Minister Browne issued a mandate to further enhance Carnival City through venue upgrades, including improved seating, lighting, murals, landscaping, and other aesthetic enhancements aimed at creating a more welcoming experience for patrons.
The ABFC says it remains committed to delivering a modern, world-class Carnival City that reflects the growth of Antigua and Barbuda's creative industries. With the new infrastructure in place, Antigua Carnival 2026 is positioned to reach a new standard for the region.
