The schedule for the abridged version of Vincymas 2024 has been released, with carnival events taking place from July 6 to July 9.
On Thursday, Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves expressed his support for continuing the carnival festivities post-Hurricane Beryl. He emphasized the importance of engaging the community in cultural activities while St. Vincent and the Grenadines addresses the aftermath of the disaster.
Vincymas, the largest annual festival in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, traditionally starts on the last Friday in June and culminates ten days later with the Carnival Tuesday parade of mas bands, known as Mardi Gras. This vibrant festival attracts thousands of regional and international visitors, including Vincentians returning home and many non-nationals eager to participate. Vincymas significantly impacts the country’s economy.
The Carnival Development Corporation (CDC) has released a flyer detailing the updated events:
Saturday, July 6
- Ragga Soca and Soca Monarch Finals
Victoria Park - Junior Calypso/Soca
Russell’s Auditorium
1 PM to 6 PM
Sunday, July 7
- Dimanche Gras (Pan-Kai-Mas)
Calypso Finals and Sections of the Bands - Senior Panorama
Monday, July 8
- J’ouvert and T-shirt Bands Street Jump-Up
Tuesday, July 9
- Mardi Gras Costume Display
The CDC acknowledged the significant destruction caused by Hurricane Beryl but highlighted that Vincymas 2024 was expected to be one of the largest in years. They considered the optics of continuing the festival amidst widespread devastation and the substantial loss of revenue due to canceled flights and investments by stakeholders.
Private event stakeholders in St. Vincent and the Grenadines also released a statement addressing concerns about various carnival events. They pledged to balance providing the best possible experience for patrons with facilitating relief efforts. Special booths at events will collect donations of canned food, bottled water, and other supplies, with all proceeds going to organizations supporting those in need.
