Antigua Carnival 2008

"Here we are, at that special time of the year again, when Antigua comes alive with artistry and revelry. The energy and vibes are magnified this year, on the occasion of Carnival’s fiftieth anniversary.

As we prepare to paint the town gold, we must reflect on how far we’ve come and take a moment to give thanks to God and to the people – the pioneers, past chairpersons and their committees, corporate Antigua, the participants and the spectators – who have helped us to arrive at this place.

We will have 18 days of glory to mark the milestone, with some new additions to the programme of events. This is the time when, as a people, we come alive and showcase what it is that sets us apart from the rest. This is the time of the year when we revel in our creativity and our joie-de-vivre. This is the time of the year when we celebrate some of the best of what Antigua has to offer.

We look forward to welcoming many visitors to our shores for the festival, among them Antiguans and Barbudans who reside abroad. The Carnival Development Committee (CDC) promises an enjoyable, unforgettable experience.

May we have a glorious and safe Carnival, may our talents shine, may good sportsmanship prevail, and may this year’s event take pride of place in the history books as one of the best ever.

See you at First Lap..

Vaughn Walter, Co-ordinator of Carnival

It is indeed a great honour to have the opportunity to welcome you to not just another Carnival Celebration.

I am most certain that the synergies formed and the energies that have been invested into what has gained its rightful name as the Caribbean’s Greatest Summer Festival will indeed live up to its name and be the Best Carnival ever.

This year, you will for the first time experience eighteen days of Music, Mas and Fantasy and while we fete celebrate and make merriment it is important to stop and reflect on our past and appreciate and thank those who paved the way, the foundation on which we have built upon; the organizers, the Mas players , the steel pan players, the calypsonians I salute you and say . This nation is proud of you.

It is my hope that those to whom this will be passed onto will see for the creation of the Carnival Museum and Hall of Fame.

Let me take this opportunity to say a very special welcome to the visitors and returning nationals.

I urge you to take the time in experiencing not, just the Carnival but take time in enjoying the beach, our food and the best hospitality you can ever find.

Over the years I have been saying to you “you ha fu come man you ha fu come”. Now that you have arrived I say thank you and enjoy the Best of our Carnival.