Carnival Monday 2025

Description

Carnival Monday in St Vincent and the Grenadines is a public holiday that marks a high point of the island carnival season. It celebrates the culture, creativity, and shared history of the people.

It takes place each year in late June or early July. The exact date moves a bit from year to year because it follows the island carnival schedule rather than a fixed calendar day.

The day is significant because it brings communities together across the islands. People of all ages join in remembering their roots and enjoying a strong sense of national pride and unity.

Carnival Monday also highlights the islanders ability to express identity through music, art, and performance. It is an important moment for cultural visibility and celebration within the nation.

Traditions

On Carnival Monday in St Vincent and the Grenadines people wake early for loud music and color. Streets fill with masqueraders wearing bright feathers, beads, and handmade costumes. Bands play soca, calypso, and steelpan as crowds dance.

Many join the Jump Up parade moving through towns. There are music competitions, costume shows, and dancing contests. Some communities still show stick fighting and traditional characters that march and perform for crowds.

Food stalls sell local favorites like roasted breadfruit with fried jackfish, pork and goat dishes, fishcakes, and sweet drinks such as sorrel and mauby. People share plates, sing along, and celebrate together late into the night.

Travel Tips

Many shops, banks and government offices close on Carnival Monday. Expect heavy traffic, packed ferries and delayed buses around Kingstown and main islands. Arrive early for events, allow extra travel time and use official taxis or prebook transport.

Stay with friends and use a meeting spot if you get separated. Carry water, sunscreen, ID and small cash. Keep valuables safe and use hotel lockers. Join organized events or buy from licensed vendors to support locals and enjoy the day safely.