Tobago’s 2025 Carnival will run on a $5.8 million budget, with events spread across multiple locations to address logistical challenges.
The island’s celebrations get underway next week on Thursday 20 February 2025, with the THA Inter-Department Show at Parade Grounds. That will be followed by the National Medium Band Finals on February 23 at the same venue.
The Windward Afro Queen Show and Calypso Competition—absent last year—returns to the Cyd Gray Complex on February 26.
The Junior Parade of Bands has been split: Roxborough’s parade is set for Saturday March 1st, while Scarborough’s follows on Sunday March 2nd.
The change seeks to address a logistical snafu that occurred in 2024, when two cruise ships had docked, and public transport vehicles were locked into servicing them.
Meanwhile, the Police Service has said it will ensure this year’s Carnival celebrations on the island are as safe as possible.
An increased security presence and a controlled parade route are in effect due to the current State of Emergency.
On February 27, the Junior Kings, Queens, and Individuals competition takes place at the Shaw Park Complex, followed by the Windward Junior Extravaganza at the Cyd Grey Complex on February 28, 2025.
Carnival Monday features Senior J’ouvert in Scarborough and Crown Point, along with Traditional Mas in Scarborough, and Monday Night Mas in Roxborough.
On Carnival Tuesday, Scarborough will host the Senior Parade of the Bands, Mud Mas, Pan on the Road, and Senior Kings and Queens of Carnival, as well as the Senior Calypso Monarch events.
Band registration is open at Shaw Park Cultural Complex until February 17, 2025.