Carnival Shake-Up on the Table as PM Questions Calypso’s Prime Friday Slot

Prime Minister Gaston Browne is proposing a shake-up of Antigua Carnival’s biggest weekend, including the possible removal of Calypso Monarch from its traditional Friday-night slot.

Browne said the three nights leading into J’ouvert should be occupied by events with enough pulling power to sustain large crowds and maintain the festival’s momentum.

During his weekly radio programme Saturday, he questioned whether the Calypso competition still meets that standard, citing reports that one recent show recorded only about 80 paying patrons.

Among the ideas raised was a return of Party Monarch to Saturday night, with Calypso reassigned elsewhere on the calendar. Browne indicated that Sunday could be considered for the Calypso final, despite the complications of holding it immediately before J’ouvert.

Melting Pot was also identified as a possible candidate for one of the high-profile weekend slots because of the strong support the event has consistently received.

The prime minister argued that the official Carnival programme must compete more effectively with private fêtes, which continue to attract significant attendance.

His comments come as preparations begin for Antigua Carnival’s 70th anniversary in 2027. Browne encouraged organisers to assess the proposals and develop a programme capable of drawing stronger support to official events.

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