**St. John’s, Antigua** – As the countdown to **[Antigua Carnival 2025](https://antiguanewsroom.com/photos-antigua-carnival-2025-its-a-vibe-officially-launched/)** begins, **[Minister of Festivals Daryll Matthew](https://antiguanewsroom.com/festivals-minister-daryll-matthews-tribute-to-ricardo-drue/)** has called on the public to take **greater ownership** of the festival, emphasizing that Carnival is **not just a government event, but a celebration fueled by the people**.
Speaking at the **official launch of[Antigua Carnival 2025](https://antiguanewsroom.com/antigua-carnival-2025-calendar-unveiled-itz-a-vibe-%f0%9f%8e%89%f0%9f%87%a6%f0%9f%87%ac/)**, Minister Matthew stressed that while the government and the Festivals Commission play a role in organizing the event, **its true success depends on the participation and passion of the people** —from performers and revelers to cultural stakeholders and business owners.
**“Carnival is not an event that belongs to the government. Carnival requires all of you to be the great event that it has been and that it will continue to be.”**
Minister Matthew’s remarks underscored the deep cultural significance of **Carnival as a national tradition** , one that has been nurtured and carried forward by generations of Antiguans and Barbudans.
**“When we see persons parade on stage in their beautiful costumes, it’s because they enjoy being a part of it, but they want you to appreciate it as well. When our Soca artists, our Calypsonians, our steel bands, and jam bands perform, it’s because something inside of them says, ‘Antigua’s Carnival is special.’”**
He called on the public to **actively support** the event by attending shows, engaging with cultural performances, and showing appreciation for the **talent, hard work, and creativity** of all those involved.
During his speech, the Minister also paid tribute to **key figures and institutions that have helped shape Carnival into what it is today**. He highlighted the contributions of:
**Hell’s Gate Steel Orchestra** – Celebrating **80 years** as Antigua’s longest-running steel band.
**Burning Flames** – Marking **40 years** as pioneers in the Soca music industry.
**Claudette “CP” Peters** – Honored for **25 years** of exceptional contributions to Soca.
**“We stand on great shoulders… Let’s honor them. Let’s celebrate them. Let’s respect them. Let’s reward them with our love and appreciation.”**
With the **expanded event schedule** , return of **Jumpy and Groovy Monarch categories** , and new **regional marketing efforts** , Antigua Carnival 2025 is set to be one of the biggest yet. However, Minister Matthew reiterated that **the festival’s success relies on the collective energy of the people**.
**“Carnival is a living, breathing representation of our culture. It will only grow stronger if every Antiguan and Barbudan embraces it—not just as spectators, but as active participants.”**
As the July 25 to August 5 celebrations approach, his message is clear: **Carnival is for the people, by the people** —and it’s up to them to make **Antigua Carnival 2025 an unforgettable celebration**.
?? **Antigua Carnival 2025—Itz A Vibe!** ?