National Carnival Chairman Allister Williams

Basseterre, St. Kitts (November 10, 2004): The programme of events for the 2004-05 National Carnival Season is packed with activities to satisfy the cravings of revelers and cultural enthusiasts, so said Carnival Committee Chairman Allister Williams while releasing the official programme to the public today.

On Friday, The Circus comes alive at 5:00 p.m. for the launching of National Carnival 2004-05. Entertainment will be provided by the Grand Masters Band and asylum Sound Factory featuring Ronnie Rascal.

The first carnival event dubbed ‘Kittitian Fete’ is scheduled for December 3, giving patrons a preview of what’s in store for the season. The 9:00 p.m. show will spotlight various local and regional bands at Netball City. Kittitian Fete is organised by Barry Cranston in collaboration with the National Carnival Committee and will be held each Friday up to December 24.

The official opening gala of National Carnival takes place at Carnival Village on December 18. The new generation of calypsonians will vie for the crown in the Junior Calypso Show, immediately following the opening which starts at 7:00 p.m.

Activities then shift into high gear as shows will be held daily, with the exception of Christmas Day. Returning favorites include the Talented Teen Pageant and OECS Junior Calypso Show on December 19, Rotoract Prince and Princess Show, Party Monarch, National Queen Pageant, Haynes Smith Caribbean Talented Teen Show and National Calypso Monarch Competition. They run from December 26 to 30 respectively.

Street events begin on December 27 with J’ouvert and the Children’s Carnival and Folklore Avenue Extravaganza on December 31. Carnival’s Grand Parade welcomes the New Year at 2:00 p.m. through the streets of Basseterre, while the exciting Carnival Car Show rolls out on January 2. Last lap brings the festivities to a close, a day later.

The theme for National Carnival 2004-05 is "It’s My Time Now." Carnival Chairman Allister Williams said the programme is reflective of the desire to capture the spirit in which carnival is celebrated.

"The social cohesion between friends and family and the synergy between the public and private sector is celebrated at carnival and we are very excited about this year’s presentation," he stressed. This year, the committee has gone all out to promote the idea of partnerships and encourage maximum participation.