Carnival in Jamaica consists of fetes, several J'ouverts, and one day of pretty mas - the Sunday after Easter Sunday. The next parade day for Carnival in Jamaica will be Sunday, April 11, 2026.
If you want to participate in the carnival parade, I recommend that you purchase a costume with a carnival mas band. There are currently 3 carnival mas bands in Jamaica:
Each carnival mas band will have its own parade route in and around New Kingston that starts in the morning, typically around 9/10am, and its own lunch spot in the afternoon. After lunch, each mas band will continue its parade route. The parade usually ends around 6pm.
Note that Bacchanal Jamaica is now a marketing partner with Xodus Carnival.
Carnival in Jamaica is held in Kingston, Jamaica. As such, I recommend that you fly into the Norman Manley International Airport (KIN).
You can however fly into another airport like the Sangster International Airport (MBJ) and then rent a car, hire a driver, or take another form of transportation such as the Knutsford Express, to get to Kingston.
The parade route passes through New Kingston and I recommend hotels that are located in that area or nearby:
Planning for carnival can be hectic! I recommend that you work with a concierge service if you need assistance with arranging fete tickets, accommodations, car rental, a driver, costume registration, costume collection and delivery. Here is a list of businesses that offer carnival concierge services in Jamaica:
Visit this link to see a calendar list of fetes for Carnival in Jamaica from IAmSoca. You can purchase tickets for most fetes and events online. However, should you wish to purchase a physical ticket, I recommend that you connect with the following ticket ambassadors or ticket outlets:
Ambassadors
Outlets
Do you need carnival to purchase stockings, carnival tights, ac carnival thigh bag, a carnival wrist pouch, or other carnival accessories? Here are some contact for you:
Brands
In Store
Online
Here are some suggestions if you need hair services such as braids, ponytail, or a wig installation:
Book your makeup appointment in advance!
Click this link to see my suggested carnival packing list
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