Last Lap 2025

Description

Last Lap is the big final party of Antigua and Barbuda Carnival. It is a lively street celebration with music, dancing, colorful costumes, and lots of people having fun together.

It usually happens on the last day of Carnival in late July or early August. The exact date changes each year because Carnival dates move a little.

People call it the Last Lap because it is the last big chance to enjoy the parades and soca music before the festival ends.

It is important because it brings the whole community together. It shows the islands culture, joy, and pride while ending Carnival on a happy note.

Traditions

Last Lap is the final big party at the end of Antigua and Barbuda Carnival. People dance in the streets to soca and calypso music and follow colorful masquerade bands until morning.

Families and friends eat street food like barbecue, fried fish, johnnycakes and drink rum punches. Vendors sell snacks and cold drinks so revellers keep dancing.

People paint their faces and wear feathers, masks and bright costumes. DJs and live bands play nonstop, and people jump up and down in energetic "jump up" dancing.

In Barbuda the celebration is smaller and more community focused, while St John and larger towns have the biggest parades and louder parties.

Travel Tips

Last Lap is the big final Carnival party. Expect loud music, street parades, road closures and lots of people. Shops and some banks may close early. Public transport will be very busy late into the night.

Wear light clothes, comfortable shoes and bring water. Keep your phone and money safe and use official taxis or hotel transport. Arrive early for good viewing spots and book rooms and rides in advance.

Be respectful of local customs. Support small vendors and enjoy music and food to experience the celebration meaningfully and safely.