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By Loshaun Dixon
Chairperson Shannon Hawley and the St Kitts-Nevis National Carnival Committee (SKNNCC) has outlined an ambitious and wide-ranging slate of activities for Sugar Mas 54, with organisers highlighting increased youth participation, strengthened logistics, and continued improvements to major competitions.
Speaking at a recent press conference, Carnival Director Clement “Monarch” O’Garro said the early events leading into the season had exceeded expectations, particularly among young people.
O’Garro noted the strong involvement of students during the Republic Bank Miss Teen St Kitts and Nevis school tour, which visited eight high schools—including Sky Academy, which will be entering the pageant for the first time.
He also highlighted a successful Calypso Tent season, the CD Song Elimination, the fourth annual Sugar Mas Awards recognising over 30 contributors, and the launch of the I Am Sugar Mas podcast.
“We have a dedicated team of 10 individuals and volunteers who continue to punch above their weight,” he said, crediting the leadership of Chairperson Shannon Hawley for pushing the Secretariat to “step up the game”.
“The results thus far have been phenomenal,” he added.
400 CHILDREN EXPECTED FOR DASANI JUNIOR CARNIVAL PARADE
A major focus this year is the expansion of youth involvement in the Dasani Junior Carnival Parade, set for Saturday, 27 December.
O’Garro announced that the parade has recorded “unprecedented registration”, with a goal to place 400 children on the road alongside youth folklore groups.
The 2025 theme, National Treasures, will showcase culturally significant landmarks including Brimstone Hill, the Berkeley Memorial, Independence Square, the Bath Hotel, Hot Springs, and the Botanical Gardens.
“We are also accommodating registrants from Nevis,” he confirmed, thanking title sponsor Dasani through KOSCAB St. Kitts Ltd.
Registration is open at the Department of Youth, the Carnival Office, and online at skncarnival.com.
VENDOR OPERATIONS STRENGTHENED IN BASSETERRE
Carnival Chair Shannon Hawley addressed public concerns regarding vending operations in Basseterre during the two-week peak of Sugar Mas. She said approximately 300 vendors apply annually, but only 150 were approved for this year to maintain order and ensure safe movement for pedestrians and vehicles.
Key vending areas include Fort Street, the Circus, Bank Street, Central Street and the Bay Road.
“We have heard your concerns,” Hawley said, noting that the Committee held two meetings with vendors and downtown businesses.
“There will be no complete blockage of sidewalks… Each vendor has a designated space to prevent obstruction.”
She added that nightly cleaning crews have been hired, and pallets have been banned to maintain a consistent and attractive appearance.
MISS TEEN SKN PAGEANT SET FOR 13 DECEMBER
Hawley also confirmed strong momentum for the Republic Bank Miss Teen SKN Pageant, scheduled for Saturday, 13 December.
“The energy and support from the schools were unbelievable,” she said, praising the dedication of contestants and their chaperones.
Tickets are available online via JAD and at Central Service Centre, COSCAB, First Federal, The Cable and through long-time vendor Tony Berry.
Most major event tickets are priced at $50 for adults and $40 for children, with the Soca Monarch costing $30.
PANORAMA RETURNS WITH FOUR BANDS
Panorama and Calypso Coordinator Antonio “Abonaty” Liburd outlined details for the First Federal and The Cable Panorama, scheduled for Sunday, 28 December at 8 p.m. at Warner Park.
Four bands will compete:
- Sugar City Steel Orchestra – Iron (Ricardo Drue)
- Bank of Nevis EBJ Harmonic Steel Orchestra – Retro (Voice)
- Oualie Rhythms Steel Orchestra – Black Man Feeling to Party (Black Stalin)
- Nevis Community Development Steel Orchestra – Teach a Teacher (King Elimat)
Liburd said all bands are rehearsing intensely and will “bring their A-game”.
Junior Calypso Monarch to Feature Brass Band for First Time
The Flow Junior Calypso Monarch will take place on Sunday, 14 December at 5 p.m. at the Marriott Plaza.
This year, junior performers will be backed by a full brass band—the Legends Band—for the first time.
The competition includes:
- 6 primary school contestants, including reigning monarch Adia
- 8 secondary school contestants, including reigning monarch Mighty J
Liburd thanked the Greenhouse Band for years of support and welcomed Flow as the new major sponsor.
SENIOR CALYPSO MONARCH SEMIFINALS SET FOR 17 DECEMBER
The Carib Senior Calypso Monarch began with 34 competitors, narrowed to 16 semifinalists after two judges’ nights at Proud Sound Calypso Tent.
The semifinals will be held on Wednesday, 17 December at the Sugar Apple in Fortlands at 7 p.m.
One alternate, King Hollywood, has been selected should any semifinalist withdraw.
Seven finalists will advance to compete against reigning monarch King Jussie.
Liburd encouraged all Calypso fans to support both the Junior and Senior competitions.
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