The city of Atlanta is about to turn up the heat this Memorial Day weekend as the Atlanta Caribbean Carnival returns for its spectacular 2025 edition. This year’s Parade of the Bands is set to be bigger, brighter, and bolder than ever—led by a star-studded lineup of Celebrity Grand Marshals who are ready to bring the vibes.
Set for Saturday, May 24, 2025, the parade will sizzle with Caribbean flavor as it takes over Atlanta’s iconic Peachtree Street and surrounding areas, powered by pulsating Soca music and dazzling Carnival costumes. Adding even more sparkle to the experience, the Atlanta Caribbean Carnival Bandleaders Association (ACCBA) has assembled a contingent of celebrity Grand Marshals, including entertainment personalities and community leaders, to headline the parade festivities.
The twin-island Republic of Trinidad and Tobago will be prominently honored with Soca legend Neil ‘Iwer’ George serving as a 2025 parade Grand Marshal. Known for decades of Soca hits including “Come to Meh,” “Savannah,” and “Stage Gone Bad,” George personifies the red, white, and black of T&T and will represent his nation with pride at this year’s parade.
Joining Iwer as co-Grand Marshal is fellow Trinbagonian and cultural ambassador Winston ‘Gypsy’ Peters. Revered for his mastery of Calypso and Extempo, Peters also currently serves as Chairman of the National Carnival Commission (NCC)—T&T’s official governing body for Carnival and its stakeholders.
Further boosting the Atlanta Carnival’s star power is Dr. Contessa Metcalfe, MD, a medical practitioner, entrepreneur, and cast member of Bravo’s hit reality series “Married to Medicine.” She will also serve as co-Grand Marshal for the 2025 parade.
The parade will also showcase political leadership with Georgia State Senator Jason Esteves, Georgia House Representative Arlene Beckles, and Atlanta City Councilman Byron Amos joining the ranks of Grand Marshals, underscoring the celebration’s cultural and civic significance.
For 2025, masqueraders will not only ignite the streets of Atlanta but will also cross a main stage inside the new post-parade concert venue at Rodney Cook Sr. Park, adding an exciting new chapter to the festivities on May 24th.
In addition to the parade, attendees can enjoy a full weekend of ACCBA-powered events, including live performances, J’ouvert, Breakfast & Cooler parties, and family-friendly activities that celebrate the rhythm, resilience, and diversity of the islands. With tens of thousands expected to attend, Atlanta Carnival 2025 is poised to be a historic, high-energy showcase of Caribbean pride.
For more information and event tickets, visit: www.atlantacarnival.org.
