Saint Lucia Carnival Returns

The Saint Lucia Tourism Authority is delighted to announce the highly anticipated Saint Lucia Carnival 2023, set to ignite the island with a burst of vibrant energy and infectious revelry. Promising an enchanting fusion of culture, dynamic colors, and vitality, this eagerly anticipated festival will showcase the very best of Saint Lucian traditions, captivating visitors from every corner of the globe.

Scheduled to take place from July 1-19, Saint Lucia Carnival 2023 is a grand showcase of the island’s rich cultural heritage and a vibrant expression of the islanders’ spirit. The festivities are designed to captivate attendees and create unforgettable memories, from the pulsating beats of the Dennery Segment, Soca, and Calypso rhythms to the dazzling costumes and electrifying performances.

This year’s remarkable feat will witness an unprecedented participation of fifteen adult bands as they grace the streets with their elegant choreography, donning magnificent handcrafted costumes embellished with feathers, gems, and rhinestones. These vibrant ensembles embody the essence of liberation and independence, culminating in a spectacular two-day parade of the bands on July 17th and 18th.

Visitors have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the heart of the local community through events such as J’ouvert, Inter-Commercial House Calypso, Junior Carnival, and community carnival parades in Gros Islet, Anse La Raye, Soufriere, Babonneau, Ciceron, and Dennery.

Festivalgoers can admire the celebration from the crowd or join in the festivities, waving their flags as a symbol of diversity and freedom alongside participants worldwide. The combination of colorful and striking costumes and Caribbean art reflects the past and present of Saint Lucia’s vibrant culture. Each band carries its theme, brought to life through the costumes and various band sections. Visitors and residents can embrace the spirit of the event by joining a parade band or by lining the streets as the bands make their way along the parade route.

One cannot miss the King and Queen of the bands, easily spotted in their towering costumes up to 30 ft high as they lead the bands through the streets, showcasing creativity and pageantry with over 50 costumes centered around different themes. While the bands compete, the designs are made with the masqueraders in mind, ensuring an unforgettable experience.

The Carnival Planning and Management Committee (CPMC), producers of the Saint Lucia Carnival, have curated an exciting program of carnival events leading up to the Parade of The Bands: