Last Updated on February 7, 2025, 1:04 PM AST by Anthony Morris
Sugar Mas 53 was an exciting celebration of culture, history and boosted the economy of St Kitts and Nevis while unveiling talents of the youth of the twin island nation on an international level. This year the month long carnival has set new records, with surge in visitors leading to growth in economy.
This year’s carnival was more than just a celebration; it was a cultural movement, highlighting the island nation’s rich heritage, creativity, and economic spirit.
Record Breaking Highlights of Sugar Mas 53
Sugar Mas 53 was a resounding success, with several records broken throughout the festivities. Some of the major accomplishments include:-
- Largest Grand Parade – More than 3,000 Mas revelers filled the streets, displaying lively costumes and energetic performances.
- Largest Jouvert – Over 6,000 jouvert warriors brought unmatched energy to the street with their music and performances.
- Largest Junior Folklore Troupe Registration – Over 1,500 clowns and 250+ folklore performers took part in the Junior Folklore competition, showing the island’s rich culture.
- Highest-ever arrivals at RLB Airport – RLB Airport welcomes 16,274 passengers during Sugar Mas 53, with hotel occupancy rates soaring high: Marriott – over 90%, Park Hyatt – over 90%, Royal St Kitts – over 90%, and KOI – over 80%.
- Largest Folklore Competition Registration – Over a dozen folklore groups participated in a folklore competition to showcase the history and heritage of St Kitts and Nevis.
- Biggest Junior Calypso Monarch Audience – Over 700 attendees supported the youth calypsonians who participated in the Junior Calypso Monarch during Sugar Mas 53.
- Largest Vendor Participation – Over 200 vendors benefited during the national carnival.
- Unmatched Online Viewership – Sugar Mas 53 had a 3.3 million Facebook viewership, highest count ever recorded in the history of Sugar Mas.
- Most Private Events on the Official Calendar – Moreover, over 30 private events were featured this season.
Minister Samal Duggins on these record breaks
Minister of Creative Economy, Samal Duggins shared that this carnival was a statement of their culture, their economic impact, and of their national pride.
He further added that as Minister of Carnival, he continues to work to transform their creative industries while expanding opportunities for cultural entrepreneurs and ensuring that Sugar Mas continues to be the biggest and best in the Caribbean region.
Anthony Morris covers stories related to politics and regional developments. His in-depth reporting about governance and reforms makes him stand out in regional journalism, with a deep analysis of political trends and their impact on Caribbean communities.
