Just a few days after St. Vincent and the Grenadines announced that they would be hosting carnival this year, another Caribbean country has alluded to the fact that they too are hoping to stage the 2022 edition of the festival.
Antigua and Barbuda’s Prime Minister Gaston Browne was the latest nation head to hint at the hosting of their ‘greatest summer festival’ during the country’s budget presentation on February 3.
He explained that if the rate of COVID-19 infections decreases, it is the aim of his government to host the event which is usually staged the last week of July and first week in August.
“As the epidemiological position improves and public health conditions allow for a return to large gatherings, one of the primary objectives of this ministry will be to facilitate the return of carnival which will be culturally infused with dynamism,” Browne said.
Foreign Affairs Minister, EP Chet Greene, also hinted to a possible staging of the ‘greatest summer festival’ after the PM’s presentation on Thursday, saying that the government is engaging with stakeholders to figure out the best way to host Carnival.
Whether or not the festivities will follow the original format or take on a more covid-friendly approach has not yet been divulged by the government officials.
It is safe to say however that event promoters, revelers and mas troupe owners will be waiting with bated breath until an official confirmation is made as it has been two years since Antigua and Barbuda has hosted carnival.
Source : Loop Caribbean