The Antigua and Barbuda Festivals Commission (ABFC) has officially launched the State Insurance Company Limited Panorama 2026 following the successful staging of Pan in the City , which transformed Redcliffe Street into a vibrant celebration of steelpan, culture, and community spirit.
As part of the launch, the ABFC presented a cheque for $165,000.00 to the Antigua and Barbuda Pan Association. The payment forms part of a three-year agreement between the Festivals Commission and the Pan Association, now in its final year, and reflects the Commission’s continued commitment to strengthening the nation’s steelband movement.
The presentation marks another significant investment in one of Antigua and Barbuda’s most treasured cultural traditions and signals the start of what is set to be an exciting Panorama season.
Addressing the event, Minister of Sports and Creative Industries, Hon. Dwayne George , praised State Insurance Company Limited for its longstanding partnership and commitment to cultural development. “ I extend sincere thanks to State Insurance Company Ltd., one of Antigua Carnival’s key corporate partners. Their support over the years has gone beyond sponsoring an event; it has been an investment in our people, our communities, and our culture.
Today, we celebrate the power of steelpan through nine steel bands representing nine communities across our nation. Every pan yard is a space where talent is nurtured, friendships are formed, and our cultural heritage is preserved for future generations. ” Looking ahead, Minister George shared his vision for the continued expansion of the steelband movement. “ My vision is for that number to grow. I look forward to the day when we have ten steel bands, including one from St. Mary’s. Mark my words. “
Chief Executive Officer of State Insurance Company Limited, Aarion Nicholas , expressed pride in the company’s continued partnership with both the Festivals Commission and the Pan Association. “At State Insurance, we believe in investing in the people, traditions, and institutions that strengthen our nation.
Panorama is more than a competition; it is a celebration of discipline, creativity, community pride, and cultural excellence. We are proud to continue our partnership with the Antigua and Barbuda Festivals Commission and the Antigua and Barbuda Pan Association as we help preserve and grow the steelpan movement for future generations.”
Pan in the City featured performances from all nine (9) steel bands, filling the streets of St. John’s with the unmistakable sounds of steelpan and building anticipation for the highly anticipated State Insurance Company Limited Panorama Finals.
The Antigua and Barbuda Festivals Commission extends its appreciation to State Insurance Company Limited, the Antigua and Barbuda Pan Association, participating steelbands, vendors, sponsors, and patrons who contributed to the success of the event.
The State Insurance Company Limited Panorama Finals will take place on Saturday, August 1, 2026, at Carnival City, starting at 8:00 p.m. Tickets are now available at official ticket outlets islandwide for $40.00.
The nation is encouraged to come out and support the steelbands as they showcase the artistry, passion, and excellence that make Panorama one of Antigua and Barbuda’s most celebrated cultural traditions.