Your Complete 2025 Caribbean Carnival Calendar

Carnival in the Caribbean? Pure vibes.

Believe it or not, there’s more than one way to do carnival—and even more islands where you can feel it for yourself, all year long. Some go full tilt with feathers and fêtes. Others take it easy with head-turning style, front-row views, and couple-friendly chipping. Even juice-only crews are welcome on the road.

Alcohol? Totally optional. But when the tempo’s high and the party’s all included, plenty choose to turn things all the way up.

If you’re craving a getaway that blends adventure with pure rhythm, just follow the beat to the islands. Dress up, dance through the streets, and let go of your inhibitions. Carnival’s calling—and with events happening year-round, you’ve got options. Here’s the most exciting Caribbean carnival dates you won’t want to miss!

Picture: Not sure where to stay for your Caribbean carnival escape? Go all-inclusive at Sandals Grande Antigua for a getaway that’s all about lively fêtes and laid-back moments to unwind.

In this article on the Sandals blog:

Carnival history
Masks and mythical characters
Big business

Caribbean Carnival Trail 2025:
November/December
January
February
March
April
May
June
July
August
September

Carnival safety tips
Look stunning for Carnival

A Bit of Carnival History

For many Caribbean islanders, carnival is a time to celebrate freedom, creativity, and self-expression. It’s widely seen as a joyous and unfiltered moment where people can let loose and embrace the energy of the season without judgment.

Carnival evolved from an honoring of African heritage and Caribbean culture, growing into a vibrant tradition that celebrates the spirit and resilience of the region. The roots of this event go deep, but while taking it in during your island escape, all you’ll need to think about is whether you want to watch from the sidelines or jump with a costumed band!

Carnival in the Caribbean can be traced back to Italian Catholics in Europe. The early 'Shrovetide' celebrations of these settlers later spread to French and Spanish colonialists, who then brought the traditions to Caribbean islands like Trinidad, Dominica, Saint Lucia, Haiti, Martinique, and others.

Masks and Mythical Characters

Masks and mythical characters form an essential part of the carnival experience in the Caribbean. The masks, costumes, and indulgences during carnival times all have religious roots. These aspects are symbolic of a type of reversal ritual, which allows for typical religious rules or norms to be broken ahead of a strict Lenten fast. This is largely a Catholic tradition.

There are a number of carnival characters that all have their own stories rooted in traditions and folklore of the islands. Saint Lucia’s djab djab, Dominican Republic’s El Diablo Cojuelo, Trinidad’s Baby Doll and Bookman are classic examples. There are many others throughout the islands, and their tales vary.

Characters can typically be seen during the carnival parade (also known as Mas) in full-body costumes that can be eccentric and somewhat frightening. Each character has its own story to tell, so it is worth finding out all you can about them while on the island.

Know before you go: ‘Playing Mas’ simply means dancing through the streets in a costumed carnival band. It is a term you’ll hear often during carnival celebrations, so it’s good to know!

Carnival is Big Business

Carnival is more than just a high-energy cultural experience—it’s a lucrative industry for the many bands that participate each year, event promoters, costume designers, and everyone in between. Many islands see increased visitor arrivals during carnival season, with hotels and resorts often reaching full capacity. A schedule of smaller events typically leads up to and follows the main celebrations, so if you’re visiting any of the islands during their carnival season, you’re in for a world of entertainment.

Insider tip: It can be a good idea to book your tickets and accommodation early to guarantee availability during the carnival season. Some people book their trips as much as six months to one year ahead of traveling!

The Caribbean Carnival Trail

This list includes some of the most popular carnival events in the Caribbean, as well as some lesser-known festivals, which can be just as fun. Keep in mind that carnival dates can be changed due to weather and other factors.

November / December

Saint Kitts Carnival

December 13 – January 2 - (Fixed dates around Christmas to early January annually)

Saint Kitts, the larger and more populated of the two-island nation (with Nevis), is known for its lush rainforests, diverse beaches of white, gray, and black sand, and of course, its vibrant carnival. Known locally as Sugar Mas, this celebration begins in mid-November and continues into the first week of January.

A full calendar of events accompanies Sugar Mas, including sunset cruises, J’ouvert, calypso and soca competitions, beauty pageants, and more. The highlight is the grand parade, where carnival bands dance through the streets to pulsating Soca rhythms.

Good to know: J’ouvert (or Jouvert) is an early morning street party held the day before the main carnival parades. Revelers don t-shirts and shorts representing their band, often with creative designs, while dancing through the streets covered in paint, powder, and mud—it’s messy, wild, and unforgettable.

Montserrat Carnival

December 14 – January 2 - (Typically held during this period yearly)

Held in December and extending into the new year, Montserrat Carnival is the island’s biggest celebration. It’s especially meaningful for returning residents who left after the Soufrière Hills Volcano eruption. Despite past challenges, this event reflects the enduring spirit of the Montserratian people as they come together to celebrate life and culture.

Saint Croix Crucian Christmas Carnival

December 26 – January 4 - (Annual event around Christmas and New Year)

In Saint Croix, the Crucian Christmas Carnival brings together the festive spirit of the holidays with the cultural flair of Caribbean carnival. From late December into January, the island comes alive with music, dancing, and celebrations that blend the best of both worlds.

Turks & Caicos Junkanoo Jump Up

December 31 – January 1 - (Fixed New Year’s Eve and Day event)

Looking for high energy in Turks and Caicos? Don’t miss the Junkanoo Jump Up. Held between New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day, this vibrant celebration features costumed dancers, horns, and drums moving through the streets into the early morning hours. Turks & Caicos’ Junkanoo is famous for its nighttime street parades which pay tribute to African dance and musical traditions.

Looking for a place to stay? Consider Beaches Turks & Caicos, a top-rated (all-inclusive resort in Turks and Caicos) that caters to families!

Bahamas Junkanoo

December 26 – January 1 - (Annual event around Christmas and New Year)

Often likened to Ghana’s Fancy Dress Festival, Junkanoo in The Bahamas is a high-energy spectacle held on Boxing Day and New Year’s Day. In downtown Nassau, costumed performers take over the streets with song, movement, and pure expression, turning the city into a rich celebration of Bahamian culture. The energy is contagious—spectators often find themselves dancing alongside the performers.

Good to know: While the main parade happens in Nassau, you can also catch Junkanoo festivities on Grand Bahama Island, The Exumas, Eleuthera, Harbour Island, The Abacos, and Bimini.

Carnival Events in January

Saint Martin Carnival

January 11 – March 21 - (Dates vary annually)

In Saint Martin, you get two cultures in one celebration—French and Dutch. This small but cosmopolitan island is a cultural melting pot, and its carnival is an underrated gem. Events on the French side typically start in February and end in early March, featuring parades, concerts, and other lively events. Carnival here continues to grow in popularity thanks to this destination’s evolving entertainment scene. The dates for Saint Martin Carnival vary annually, but the event usually spans several weeks early in the year.

Carnival Events in February

Most carnivals in February take place just before Ash Wednesday. While this timing originally had religious roots, in recent years these celebrations have truly taken on a life of their own.

Carriacou Carnival

February 3 – 5 - (Fixed early February dates)

Carriacou may be small, but its carnival is big on charm and energy. Located near Saint Vincent and Grenada, this island is part of the Grenadines. To get there, most visitors travel to one of the larger nearby islands before taking a short boat ride to Carriacou. Expect a lively but intimate experience with street dancers, costumed bands, and spirited Soca parties.

Expert tip: Catch a ferry to Carriacou the Thursday before the festivities kick off to soak in the full carnival experience.

Dominican Republic Carnival

February 12 - (Date varies annually, usually around pre-Lenten period)

Carnival in the Dominican Republic is an exhilarating spectacle. Influenced by Spanish culture, this celebration is often compared to Rio de Janeiro’s Carnival—though on a more accessible scale. Taking place throughout the month of February, it’s a colorful celebration of culture and identity. Costumes, masks, and iconic characters tied to folklore bring the streets to life.

Bonaire Carnival

February 16 – March 4 - (Date varies yearly

No trip to the ABC islands feels complete without soaking in Bonaire’s one-of-a-kind take on carnival. Expect lively music festivals, colorful street parades, and time-honored traditions. Bonaire’s carnival season stretches over six event-filled weeks—one of the longest in the Caribbean. For many, the most symbolic moment is the burning of ‘King Mono’, a fiery ritual that marks the release of negativity ahead of the Lenten season. The dates of Bonaire’s Carnival shift slightly yearly, but the event is generally held between February and early March.

Carnaval de Ponce (Puerto Rico Carnival)

February 21 – March 4 - (Annual event with slight date shifts)

Puerto Rico brings the heat with Carnaval de Ponce, also known as Carnaval Ponceño. Held in the historic city of Ponce, this is one of the oldest carnivals in the Western Hemisphere. With upbeat parades, flamboyant costumes, and a distinctly Latin flair, this celebration is often compared to Rio—but it has a flavor all its own.

Picture: Ponce parade in Puerto Rico.

Guyana Mashramani

February 23 - (Fixed date annually)

Held on Guyanese Republic Day, Mashramani—or simply “Mash”—marks the anniversary of Guyana becoming a republic in 1970. This national celebration is a colorful fusion of the country’s rich cultural traditions, with food, music, dancing, parades, and parties across the nation. While in Guyana, you might also want to head out on a Kaieteur Falls Adventure—it’s one of the world’s tallest single-drop waterfalls and an absolute must-see!

Martinique Carnival

February 26 – March 4 - (Dates vary slightly annually)

For a carnival with deep cultural roots, Martinique’s celebration is a standout. Music and authenticity are at the heart of this traditional event, which blends French and African influences in a way that has helped it stand out among island carnivals. Some carnival bands from Martinique participate in other nearby Caribbean carnivals, like Saint Lucia Carnival which adds to the inclusiveness of the festivities.

Curaçao Carnival

February 28 – March 5 - (Dates vary slightly yearly)

Curaçao offers one of the Caribbean’s most festive and inclusive carnival experiences. Held at the end of February and rolling into March, this colorful celebration brings together locals and visitors to honor culture, freedom, and heritage. As part of the Dutch ABC islands, Curaçao’s carnival blends European flair with Caribbean rhythm.

Carnival Events in March

Aruba Carnival

March 1 – 2 - (Dates vary annually)

Aruba’s Carnival is the biggest celebration of the year on the island. Held in this dazzling corner of the ABC islands, the festivities include Antillean “tumba” music, steel pan performances, pulsating salsa, and lively marching bands. Locals will tell you: “you haven’t lived until you’ve been to Aruba’s carnival”—and with a calendar that kicks off in January and peaks in March, they might be right! If you plan on heading to Aruba’s Carnival, keep in mind that the dates vary annually.

Haiti Kanaval (Haiti Carnival)

March 2 – 4 - (Dates vary yearly)

Carnival on this Creole-speaking island is a proud cultural expression. While Haiti hosts various carnival celebrations throughout the year, the main event—Haiti Kanaval—takes place in Port-au-Prince from January through early March. It’s a festival filled with color, passion, and a deep connection to Haitian heritage. The dates of Haiti’s Kanaval change annually, so be sure to verify before booking your trip.

Guadeloupe Carnival

March 2 - 5 (Dates vary annually)

Carnival in the French islands has a distinctly different vibe—and in Guadeloupe, you’ll feel it the moment the festivities begin. One of the largest celebrations in the Antilles, Guadeloupe’s carnival is a dazzling showcase of dance, music, and time-honored tradition, all wrapped in a rhythm that’s unmistakably its own. While you’re there, make your way to the Carnival Village in Pointe-à-Pitre—a lively hub where you can discover all things carnival, from colorful costumes to infectious beats.

Trinidad Carnival

March 3 – 4 - (Dates vary yearly, usually Monday and Tuesday before Ash Wednesday)

Trinidad’s carnival is the mother of all carnivals in this region. It’s the kind of event many partygoers hope to attend at least once in their life—and its growing popularity has made it a bucket-list experience for travelers across the globe. In recent years, celebrities like Ashanti, Mya, Nicki Minaj (born in Trinidad), Lil’ Kim, Trinidad James and others have all made the trip in February just to join the celebration. Most famously, Grammy-winning entertainer Ciara and her husband Russell Wilson made the trip over to Trinidad for carnival—their visit was viral sensation!

Insider tip: While in Trinidad, don’t forget to check out Tobago’s carnival celebrations also held in February.

Dominica Carnival

March 3 – 4 - (Dates vary yearly)

Dominicans definitely know how to throw a party, and Dominica’s carnival—known as “The Real Mas”—proves it. This Creole-speaking island goes all out with festivities that span from sunrise to sunset, all while staying rooted in traditional carnival customs. Expect daybreak parades, rhythmic music, and an atmosphere that’s both refreshing and wildly fun.

Saint Barthélemy Carnival

March 4 – 16 - (Dates vary annually)

No island is left out of the Caribbean carnival circuit—not even Saint Barthélemy. Known for its upscale events and regattas, St. Barth’s takes a refined yet festive approach to carnival. The island’s celebration begins in mid-February and winds down in March, making it a perfect stop for those chasing carnival across the region.

Carnival Events in April

Sint Maarten Carnival

April 16 - (Date varies yearly, usually in spring)

Sint Maarten, the Dutch side of a twin island, is part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. This is one of a handful of Dutch Caribbean territories that host their own signature carnival. With a diverse cultural background, carnival here is inclusive and high-energy—expect a full slate of events in a classic Caribbean setting. Sint Maarten’s carnival typically happens in late April through early May.

Virgin Gorda Easter Festival Celebrations

April 20 - (Annual event tied to Easter period)

Carnival in Virgin Gorda (British Virgin Islands) is simply enticing! This destination is a party hotspot during late March and early April, a real transformation from its usual laidback atmosphere. If you visit during this time, you can look forward to enjoying groovy island rhythms and nonstop revelry. Get ready to dance through the streets and soak up the joyous atmosphere in one of the BVI’s most scenic locations.

Bacchanal Jamaica

April 23 – 29 (Dates vary annually)

Since its inception in 2000 with just three bands, Bacchanal Jamaica has evolved into one of the island’s most anticipated carnival celebrations. What begins in December culminates in a spectacular Road March finale around Easter. With performances from Caribbean superstars like Machel Montano, Destra, Kes, Bunji Garlin, and Fay-Ann Lyons, this is a cultural fusion of Reggae, Dancehall, and Soca unlike any other. Whether you’re here for the fêtes or the road, Jamaica's action-packed carnival scene won’t disappoint.

Ocho Rios Carnival

April 23 – 29 - (Dates vary yearly)

In the heart of the action, Ocho Rios delivers one of the most dynamic carnival experiences in Jamaica. Beach parties and daybreak fêtes are among the most attended events during carnival season—and so are the street parades and live performances. Simply put, this celebration offers something for everyone. The fun begins in January and it’s a mix of culture, coastline, and community.

Insider tip: The all-inclusive Sandals Ochi is ideally located to keep you close to the carnival buzz in Ocho Rios, Jamaica.

Saint Thomas Carnival

April 27 - (Date varies annually)

Every April, Saint Thomas, part of the U.S. Virgin Islands, bursts to life with its annual carnival celebration. The lead-up to the main parade on Main Street is packed with energy—parties, concerts, and cultural displays that set the tone for the grand event. Whether you’re dancing in a band or cheering from the sidelines, you’ll feel the infectious rhythm of the island from start to finish.

Carnival Events in May

Cayman Carnival Batabano

May 3 - 10 (Dates vary yearly)

Celebrated during the first week of May, Cayman Carnival Batabano is the national carnival event in the Cayman Islands. Featuring both adult and junior events, Batabano brings color, creativity, and energy to the streets of George Town with music, masquerade, and culinary delights. In the Cayman Islands, you can also attend CayMAS – a newer carnival event that is quickly gaining popularity. CayMAS is usually held in late June or early July and has its own parade, parties, and celebrations.

Carnival Events in June

Bahamas Carnival

June 5 - 9 (dates can vary)

If you’re wondering whether Junkanoo and Bahamas Carnival are two separate events, the answer is yes. The Bahamas is home to both its modern Caribbean-style carnival and Junkanoo, a traditional, culture-focused celebration typically held around New Year’s.

As one of the world’s most breathtaking destinations, The Bahamas becomes even more irresistible during its Carnival season. Held in early June, this celebration brings together the best of the islands’ culture, music, and local traditions. Bahamas Carnival is a must for anyone looking to combine sun, sea, and Soca while experiencing the heart of The Bahamas — and its many Out Islands — along the way!

Insider tip: Planning to attend Bahamas Carnival? Book one of the all-inclusive resorts in The Bahamas early to secure the best views and easy access to the festivities.

Bermuda Heroes Weekend

June 11 - 16 (fixed annual dates)

With its signature pink sand beaches and charm, Bermuda adds a unique flair to Caribbean carnival with the Heroes Weekend in mid-June. Though smaller than some of the region’s larger festivals, Bermuda’s carnival is rapidly gaining recognition for its well-organized events, warm hospitality, and high-energy vibe. It’s a rising star on the carnival map that could be a good fit for travelers seeking something fresh and fun.

Saint John Festival

June 28 - July 4 (fixed annual dates)

Held annually from late June into early July, the Saint John Festival is a highlight of the US Virgin Islands' cultural calendar. Tied to Emancipation Day, this celebration is more than just carnival—it’s a powerful expression of heritage, community, and island pride. With parades, concerts, and local traditions in full swing, Saint John offers a truly enriching and festive experience.

Carnival Events in July

Havana Carnival (Cuba)

July 1 - August 31 - (activities take place every weekend during this period)

From the streets of Havana, a centuries-old celebration bursts to life every summer. Dating back to 1573, Havana Carnival is one of the oldest and most culturally significant carnivals in the Caribbean. Each weekend in July and August, the capital fills with Afro-Cuban rhythms, elaborate floats, and dazzling costumes. It’s a carnival that pays tribute to Cuba’s diverse and enduring spirit.

Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Carnival (Vincy Mas)

July 2 – 9 - (Dates vary yearly)

There’s a kind of graduation that happens once you set out on the carnival trail. You might start with milder events and work your way up to something wild and tropical at one of the region’s best carnivals. Vincy Mas stands out as a highlight on that path — frequently ranking among the Caribbean’s best. Held from late June to early July in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, this celebration offers something for both the young and the young at heart. Some of the best Soca stars come from Saint Vincent, so you can be sure there’ll be plenty of great music and festive vibes!

Saint Lucia Carnival

July 17 - 23 (Dates vary)

Formerly held in February, Saint Lucia Carnival now lights up the summer and keeps getting bigger every year. Taking place in mid-July, the main events unfold over two days. But that’s not all. Saint Lucia’s carnival calendar spans several weeks and includes parades, concerts, pageants, competitions and more. Since its rescheduling, the event has only grown stronger—attracting revelers from across the globe to join in one of the region’s top carnival experiences.

Insider tip: Sandals Halcyon Beach in Saint Lucia offers quick and easy access to the carnival route—perfect for unwinding after a long day on the road.

Insider tip: Luxury resort Sandals Halcyon Beach in Saint Lucia is located along the island’s carnival route.

Anguilla Summer Festival

July 21 – August 11 - (Dates vary yearly)

Located just off the coast of Saint Martin, Anguilla brings its own unique energy to the carnival calendar with the Anguilla Summer Festival. This celebration blends tradition and island flair with events like boat races, jouvert, beauty pageants, and the legendary Caribbean Beach Party. Growing in popularity each year (the event marked its 50th anniversary in 2024), this carnival is a top pick for travelers looking for something different to do in the islands.

Insider tip: You can reach Anguilla via a short ferry ride from St. Maarten or a quick flight from the Princess Juliana Airport.

Nevis Culturama

July 24 – August 5 - (Annual event)

Part of the dual-island nation of Saint Kitts and Nevis, Nevis brings its own personality to the stage with Culturama. This red-hot summer celebration honors the island’s traditions and talent through parades, pageants, dance, music, and more. It’s Nevis’ time to shine, and the small but lively island makes the most of it, proudly sharing its cultural identity with locals and visitors alike.

Antigua & Barbuda Carnival

July 25 - August 6, 2025

Antigua hosts one of the most well-organized carnivals in the Caribbean. Held every August, the event pulls in crowds of regional and international visitors. From convertibles cruising by with radiant carnival contestants to parties that pulse from day to night, Antigua’s carnival easily ranks among the Caribbean’s best. Barbuda, Antigua’s sister island, offers a more intimate and traditional carnival experience—perfect for revelers looking to connect with community and culture in a closer setting.

Looking for a place to stay? All-inclusive resorts in Antigua offer top-tier comfort and convenience during carnival season.

Carnival of Santiago de Cuba

July 26 - (Fixed date annually)

Known for its deep cultural roots and welcoming atmosphere, Santiago de Cuba’s carnival is one of the most well-known festivals in Cuba. Held each July, this dynamic event highlights Afro-Cuban traditions through lively music, elaborate parades, and colorful costumes. Attending this carnival is like stepping into the soul of Cuba—welcoming, passionate, and alive with rhythm.

Saint Eustatius (Statia Carnival)

July 28 - (Fixed date annually)

Late July into early August, Saint Eustatius—also known as Statia—comes alive with a joyful burst of color and sound. Despite being a small Dutch Caribbean island with a population just over 3,000, Statia’s carnival pulls in both locals and visitors, including those returning home to celebrate. It’s a community-focused festival aimed at boosting cultural pride and tourism.

Saba Summer Festival

July 28 – August 2 - (Annual event)

Small in size but big on heart, Saba brings a charming cultural flair to the carnival calendar with its Summer Festival. This Dutch Caribbean island hosts a cozy but lively event filled with traditional food, live music, and festive gatherings. It’s a great way to explore the Lesser Antilles and connect with the welcoming spirit of Saba’s people.

Insider tip: The festival is a great opportunity to discover more about this hidden gem in the Caribbean chain. Don’t miss the chance to dive a little deeper into what makes this island shine.

Barbados Crop Over

July 30 – August 5 - (Dates vary yearly)

More than just a carnival, Crop Over in Barbados is a celebration of heritage tied to the end of the sugar cane harvest. Over the years, it has become one of the most high-profile festivals in the Caribbean region—especially when global superstar Rihanna shows up to join the parade. With elaborate costumes, pulsating music, and unmatched vibes, this is a must-do for any carnival enthusiast.

Insider tip: Barbados resorts book up fast during Crop Over. Reserve early for the best availability. Staying at an all-inclusive resort in Barbados means that all your vacation essentials – from accommodation and dining to entertainment, land and water sports, and more – are included!

Carnival Events in August

Emancipation Festival – Tortola (BVI)

August 4 – 6 - (Fixed dates annually)

Early August marks the Emancipation Festival in Tortola, the largest island in the British Virgin Islands. This celebration honors freedom and cultural heritage with a range of events including parades, gospel concerts, food fairs, beauty pageants, and street parties. It’s a unique cultural experience that combines reflection, joy, and community in a way that both locals and visitors can enjoy.

Grenada Spicemas

August 6 – 13 - (Dates vary yearly)

The name says it all—Spicemas in Grenada is a fiery, flavorful celebration that lives up to the island’s reputation as the “Spice Isle.” Held in early to mid-August, the festival features steel pan competitions, beauty pageants, colorful parades, and high-energy parties. Known for its excellent promotion and the wide variety of events hosted, Spicemas is one of the most talked-about carnival events in the Caribbean.

Insider tip: Stay close to celebrations while in Grenada to minimize transport costs. Check out Sandals' all-inclusive resort in Grenada, which is near to the parade route.

Carnival Events in September

Belize Carnival

September 6 - (Fixed date annually)

Belize Carnival wraps up the regional carnival season in September with a joyous blend of heritage and revelry. This festival brings together Belize’s diverse cultural roots—Mayan, African, and European—into a lively street theatre filled with music, masquerade, and a spirit of unity. It’s a uniquely Belizean celebration that shines with warmth, rhythm, and colorful expression.

While this event closes the Caribbean carnival calendar, preparations for the next season start quickly—some bands even begin launching by November!

Good to know: Many carnivals, especially those linked to Lent and Easter, have dates that shift each year. The dates above reflect the 2025 schedule but will vary annually. Events tied to holidays or specific weekends (e.g., Junkanoo, Bermuda Heroes Weekend) tend to have fixed or very consistent dates.

Carnival Safety Tips

Keep safe as you take in the sights and sounds of carnival. Here are some of the most important things to keep in mind.

1. Plan your transportation early when attending carnival events, so you’re not left stranded after the fact.
2. Wear minimal jewelry to avoid attracting unwanted attention.
3. Wear sunscreen, a hat or both.
4. Stay hydrated. Typically, people drink more alcohol than usual during carnival, which can dehydrate your body.
5. Keep an eye on your children, especially in crowded areas as they can get lost.
6. Don’t leave your drinks unsupervised, and ensure all bottled drinks are opened in your presence.
7. Travel in groups when heading out to activities. Ensure all members of your group are present when you’re ready to leave.
8. Do not accept drinks from strangers.
9. People from the Caribbean can be friendly, but remember, not everyone is your friend.
10. Avoid carrying large amounts of money and keep your wallet or change purse somewhere discreet.

Creativity and Culture Collide at Caribbean Carnival

Carnival in the Caribbean is more than just costumes—it’s a celebration of creativity and self-expression, reflected in the bold colors and elaborate designs that define the season. Across the region, many take the opportunity to feel their best, whether that means following a fitness routine or simply embracing the moment as they are.

So, whether you want to go all out—glittery, glamorous, and ready to fête—or take a more laid-back approach, carnival offers a chance to witness a timeless cultural tradition. And, if you decide to make carnival part of your island experience, it's a chance to be part of something that’s fully and unmistakably Caribbean.

Heading to the Caribbean for carnival and not sure where to stay? We highly recommend going all-inclusive—so the only thing you’ll need to think about is getting there. Accommodation, food, drinks, snacks, entertainment? It’s all taken care of before you even arrive!

Picture: Let that friend group carnival escape come alive at the beachfront Sandals Dunn’s River—or any of the all-inclusive Sandals Resorts on the islands where the vibes never stop!

Disclaimer: All information on this blog page may change at any time without prior notice. Take into consideration the exact carnival dates might change from year to year, which influences the accuracy of the information. Sandals will not be liable for loss or inconvenience arising from the use of this information.