Steelband enthusiasts are expected to gather in downtown St. John’s on Saturday as the Antigua and Barbuda Festivals Commission hosts Pan in the City , a pre-Panorama showcase featuring some of the nation’s leading steel orchestras.

The event, which begins at 3 p.m. in front of the State Insurance Company Ltd. building on Redcliffe Street, is being held in partnership with State Insurance Company Ltd. as part of activities leading up to Carnival 2026.

A major feature of the programme will be the presentation of a sponsorship cheque from the Antigua and Barbuda Festivals Commission to the Antigua and Barbuda Pan Association. Organizers said the presentation underscores continued support for the development of steelpan music and the wider cultural sector.

The event will also include remarks from Minister Dwayne George, who has responsibility for Carnival and Creative Industries.

Nine steel orchestras are scheduled to perform, giving patrons an early preview of the talent expected to compete during this year’s Panorama competition. Participating bands include Hell’s Gate Steel Orchestra, Halcyon Steel Orchestra, Westside Symphony, Original Steel Orchestra, Ebonites Steel Orchestra, Pandemonium Steel Orchestra, Panche Steel Orchestra, Harmonites Steel Orchestra and Gemonites Steel Orchestra.

Several special guests are expected to attend, including members of the Antigua and Barbuda Festivals Commission, the reigning Queen of Carnival, contestants in the 2026 Queen of Carnival competition, and contestants in the ECAB Mr. and Miss Teenage Pageant.

Organizers say the event is designed to build excitement for Panorama while bringing steelpan music directly into the heart of the capital.

Pan in the City is open to the public and is expected to draw steelband supporters, Carnival enthusiasts and visitors to St. John’s as the country continues preparations for the annual summer festival.