Tobago Carnival 2025: The Big Picture
- MASX
- Oct 7
- 2 min read
Here's an update on what’s happening this week ahead of Tobago Carnival 2025 — what’s exciting, what to watch, and what to plan for if you’re heading over.
Tobago Carnival this year runs from October 24 to 26, 2025.
The Tobago House of Assembly (THA) has committed just under $12 million TT to this year’s October festival.
Earlier this month, THA and the Tobago Festivals Commission launched Tobago Carnival Unveiled: Mud, Mas, Music — their thematic reveal for the festival.
There’s growing anticipation: THA Secretary Tashia Burris suggested demand already outpaces available seats, especially on the sea bridge.
So, this week is really the final stretch — things are gearing up in full force.
🔥 What’s On This Week: Events & Highlights
Here are some of the events and things to look out for in the days just before carnival proper:
Date | Event / Activity | Details / What to Expect |
Oct 11 | Ride Along | Starts at 5:00 p.m. — a school themed party + bus tour https://www.instagram.com/p/DMTpOWCJo7l/. |
🔍 Behind the Scenes: What’s Going On Offstage
Registrations are strong. Bandleaders report good uptake in registering for bands this year.
Transport pressure. The President of the Tobago October Carnival Association (TOCO), Dexter Sandy, called for increased air and sea bridge transport capacity.
Small business support. Tobago administrators announced a $30,000 grant to help local businesses ahead of the carnival — though some critique suggests the timing is late.
Demand and logistics. The sea bridge capacity is reportedly near sold-out for the festival weekend, showing how much demand there is.
So, while the big parties get the spotlight, there’s a lot of hustle behind securing transport, staging, logistics, accommodations, and community readiness.
✅ What to Watch / Tips for This Week
If you’re planning to attend, or even just following from home, here are a few things to keep in mind:
Book your transport now. If you haven’t yet booked your sea or air travel, do so immediately — slots are tight.
Check event schedules daily. Key mas, fetes, and band routes may shift or be updated as the festival approaches.
Prepare for J’ouvert & the parade. Make sure your costume, band registration, and route knowledge are locked in.
Stay updated on local announcements. Because logistics (e.g. transport, security) are under pressure, changes or updates may come at short notice.
Support local vendors. With the small grant boost, local artisans, food vendors, and businesses will be active. It’s a good time to engage and experience them.