Miami, Florida – October 9, 2025 – The International Launch of Lucian Carnival 2026 took place in Miami on October 8th, marking the fourth consecutive year that the event has coincided with Miami Carnival and its surrounding festivities. The flavours, sights, and sounds of Saint Lucia captivated more than 100 attendees, including travel trade partners, media representatives, carnival enthusiasts, and members of the Saint Lucian diaspora.
Consul General of Saint Lucia to Miami, H.E. Darrel Montrope, warmly welcomed guests, while Louis Lewis, CEO of the Saint Lucia Tourism Authority (SLTA), shared the reimagined vision for the destination. He emphasized the importance of signature events such as the Saint Lucia Jazz & Arts Festival, Creole Heritage Month, and Carnival as key pillars of the island’s tourism strategy.
“Lucian Carnival is an amplified time for visitors to experience the true spirit of Saint Lucia. Our continued partnership with Miami Carnival extends our reach and strengthens the impact of Lucian Carnival each year,” Lewis noted.
Dexter Percil, Director of Global Marketing, presented the National Carnival Calendar with an emphasis on its history and culture while Christopher Gustave, Marketing Manager for the Caribbean, Events and Sports, highlighted the private parties and showcased the vibrant and electrifying two-day Parade of the Bands.
The spotlight for 2026 is on the high-energy, percussive genre born in the fishing village of Dennery, “Dennery Segment”. Curated by Saint Lucian creative Trevor King, the presentation explored the genre’s origins in a simple computer, microphone, and rhythm, and its evolution into a globally recognized sound. With its fast tempo, infectious drum patterns, rhythmic chanting, and minimal melodic instrumentation, Dennery Segment has become a defining feature of Caribbean Carnivals and international stages alike.
The genre, which also reflects Saint Lucia’s French Creole heritage through its use of local dialect, expressions, and cultural nuances that give it a distinctly Lucian flavor, came alive through live performances by UMPA, Blackboy, and Mighty. Backed by Saint Lucian Deejay Sir Lancealot and dancers, the showcase embodied the genre’s raw, unapologetic energy and deep cultural roots capturing the creativity, vibrancy, and spirit of Saint Lucian youth culture.
The evening concluded with exciting giveaways, including a trip for two to Saint Lucia as part of a global carnival promotion running until May 1, 2026. Partner airline Sunrise Airways also surprised one lucky winner with a trip for two. The night wrapped up with heartfelt remarks from Thaddeus Antoine, Chairman of the Saint Lucia Tourism Authority.
Lucian Carnival 2026 will be celebrated from July 1–22, 2026. Visit stluia.org for information and bookings.
About Saint Lucia: Saint Lucia, the only country in the world named after a woman, is renowned for its stunning natural beauty and vibrant culture. Situated in the Eastern Caribbean Sea, the island is famed for its lush rainforests, pristine beaches, and the iconic Pitons – a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors can explore the island’s rich history and popular festivals, such as the Gros Islet Friday Night Street Party, Saint Lucia Jazz & Arts Festival, Lucian Carnival, and Creole Heritage Month. Signature activities include the highly Instagrammed mud baths at Sulphur Springs Park and heritage chocolate making. The island is recognized as the World’s Leading Honeymoon Destination and the Caribbean’s Leading Adventure Tourism Destination, and Olympic gold medalist Julien Alfred proudly serves as a Tourism Ambassador. Learn more at www.stlucia.org and follow us on Instagram and Facebook.
