San Fernando Carnival Suspends Competitions Due to Funding Cuts

San Fernando Carnival Competitions Suspended Due to Funding Cuts
The mas, steelpan, and Jouvert bands competing in San Fernando’s Carnival on Carnival Monday and Tuesday may face a year without monetary prizes. The San Fernando Carnival Committee (SFCC) announced yesterday that funding cuts from the National Carnival Commission (NCC) have made it impossible to offer financial rewards for this year’s competitions.
The decision affects several events, including Jouvert, midnight mas, the Monday and Tuesday parade of the bands in small, medium, and large categories, the senior calypso monarch, and the pre-Dimanche Gras show for Kings and Queens. However, the SFCC clarified that Carnival events in San Fernando will still take place, albeit without the awarding of prizes.
In a media release, the SFCC stated that the decision was made after consultations with stakeholders on Monday. The committee noted that the level of funding received for Carnival 2026 was significantly lower than in previous years, making it insufficient to support a full competition-based Carnival. The SFCC emphasized the need to treat all participating bands and stakeholders fairly and sustainably.
To alleviate the financial burden on bands and encourage participation, the SFCC announced that registration fees would be waived. All standard NCC requirements and deadlines will remain in effect. The committee is also seeking sponsorships, partnerships, and investment opportunities to support the event.
Mayor Robert Parris expressed his disappointment over the funding cuts, noting that this suspension of competition marks an unprecedented occurrence in the history of San Fernando Carnival. He explained that the SFCC had initially been approved for $700,000 in funding from the NCC but ultimately received only $500,000 for Carnival 2026. Parris stated that while the SFCC does not intend to “fight anyone,” stakeholders must make their voices heard regarding the inadequate funding.
Prizes for junior competitions are being sought through corporate sponsorships to address the funding shortfall. Parris confirmed that while there will be no competition aspect this year, an appearance fee will be paid to support the bands. He emphasized that all Carnival activities will proceed responsibly and prudently.
During a recent meeting, Parris noted that 13 bands unanimously agreed to suspend the competitions, underscoring that the decision was not politically motivated. He called for a more appropriate funding level for the San Fernando Carnival, suggesting that at least $1 million would be necessary to host the event comfortably.
Band leaders have expressed their understanding of the situation. Ayana Kalicharan, leader of the Kalicharan Mas band, supported the SFCC’s decision, acknowledging the insufficient funds and expressing her commitment to continue the band’s participation despite the lack of competition. Lionel Jagessar Jr., another band leader, echoed this sentiment, stating that while the prize money is important, the bands are ready to proceed with Carnival regardless.
The Express reached out to Minister of Culture and Community Development Michelle Benjamin and NCC chairman Peter Kanhai for comments but did not receive an immediate response.

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