The streets of Castries came alive with revelry, rhythm, and radiant costumes as Lucian Carnival 2025 concluded in spectacular style earlier this week. Thousands of spectators lined the parade routes on Monday and Tuesday (July 21 and 22) to witness the annual J’Ouvert and Parade of the Bands celebrations — a vibrant display of Saint Lucian creativity and culture.
Ten bands competed in this year’s national Parade of the Bands, while seven showcased their talent in the ever-popular J’Ouvert Parade. Following two days of energetic performances and colourful pageantry, the Carnival Planning and Management Committee (CPMC) officially announced the results during a live press briefing at the Bay Gardens Hotel on Wednesday.
Tribe of Twel Dominates Parade of the Bands
Leading the pack once again, Tribe of Twel secured the coveted Band of the Year title with their stunning portrayal “Bel Wad Ek Soulye”, earning a remarkable 436 points. The band also captured first place in several key categories, including Best Designed Band and Best Portrayal of Theme.
Xuvo Carnival came in a strong second with their theme “Isle of Angels”, followed by Just 4 Fun, who took third place with their production “Mas”.
Jordan Augier Named Individual of the Year
In the Individual of the Year category, Jordan Augier of Tribe of Twel wowed the judges with his portrayal “Unto Us a Child was Born”, earning the top score of 444 points. Sharon Tanner (also of Tribe of Twel) and Kareem Sifflet of Xuvo were close behind with standout portrayals.
Xuvo and Just 4 Fun Tie for Section of the Year
A rare tie occurred in the Section of the Year category, with Xuvo Carnival’s “Angele – The Ghost of Mas Past” and Just 4 Fun’s “Rapture” both earning 79 points. Tribe of Twel’s “Kai Gouvene” followed in second place with 73 points.
Dezral Wins 2025 Road March Title
On the music front, Dezral secured the Road March crown with his infectious hit “The Car”, which dominated the streets with 28 plays. He outpaced competitors Ricky T & HP (“Freak Out”), Carlto (“I Cry”), and Imran Nerdy (“Warning”).
Back in Time Inc Takes J’Ouvert Band of the Year
During the early-morning J’Ouvert festivities, Back in Time Inc captured the J’Ouvert Band of the Year title with their portrayal “St. Lucia Carnival. A Place for All”, scoring 409 points. Come To Me Tyre Shop and J’ouvert Jammers followed in second and third respectively.
Ole Mas, Spirit of Carnival, and More
In the Ole Mas category, veteran masquerader Kennedy “Boots” Samuel claimed the top spot with “Pee I Pee”, while Just 4 Fun was named the winner of the Spirit of Carnival award.
The full list of winners across all categories reflects a strong year for costume bands, with particularly intense competition among top-tier groups such as Tribe of Twel, Xuvo, and Just 4 Fun.
Looking Ahead to Carnival 2026
As the curtain falls on another successful year, organizers have already announced the dates for next year’s celebration. Lucian Carnival 2026 is set to run from July 1 to July 22, 2026.