BASSETERRE, St. Kitts — AN economic impact assessment of the National Carnival season has recorded a strong surge in activity over the six-week period, surpassing figures from the previous year.
Minister of the Creative Economy Samal Duggins announced during a recent ceremony that total economic activity rose by 35.9 percent compared to the last season.
According to the figures, the 2025/2026 season generated $29.5 million in spending, up from $21.7 million the year before. Much of the increase has been attributed to a rise in private events during the busy Christmas and Carnival period.
Speaking at the prize-giving ceremony on Saturday night (Feb.7) , Duggins said the numbers underscore the financial value Sugar Mas brings to the Federation. The festival continues to serve as a key marketing tool, drawing visitors during the winter months in major source markets while also boosting regional arrivals.
The minister also confirmed increased participation in both J’Ouvert morning and the Grand Parade, signalling growing appeal among locals and overseas visitors.
“Ladies and gentlemen, this year we witnessed an astounding 10,000-plus revellers who took to the streets for J’Ouvert morning, with some J'Ouvert bands boasting over 2,500 revellers,” Duggins said.
“We also witnessed more than 5,000 participants engage in our Grand Parade, with revellers ascending on our shores from all across the world. Again, we see Sugar Mas becoming the carnival of choice for many global revellers.”
He added that overall viewership and attendance rose, alongside an expansion in private events, which climbed to 35 this season. The increase, he said, reflects the festival’s growing popularity and wider opportunities for public involvement.
“I believe we can say fairly that our Sugar Mas product is indeed growing, and we are seeing that progress,” the minister added.
Participants shared more than EC$700,000 in prize money this year. For Sugar Mas 54, the government injected over EC$500,000 in direct cash support to promoters, J’Ouvert and parade troupes, and participating bands.
