Soca King Machel Montano created history, with his record-breaking 12th road March title with his song “Encore” played 171 times as Trinidad and Tobago celebrates, what is known as “The Greatest Show On Earth,” Carnival 2026.
2024 Trinidad and Tobago Calypso Monarch, Machel Montano.Photo courtesy Caribbean Music Awards
In the second position was Aaron St Louis aka Voice, with “Cyah Behave” played 127 times, and Ian Alvarez aka Bunji Garlin placed third with “Road Man, “which was played 97 times.
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As the country showcased a magnificent display of cultural performances and events, several competitions and parties (fêtes) led up to this much-anticipated two-day celebration.
Kalifa Williams and Associate children’s mas band presents “Under The Sea” at Couva Carnival in Trinidad.Photo by Devika Ragoonanan
With revellers coming out in the early hours of the morning on Carnival Monday to begin the celebration with J’ouvert as they parade the streets covered in mud, paint, and powder, dancing to the rhythms of sweet Calypso and Soca music.
Golden Mas Community mas band portraying “Ah Band Ah Monkey” during the 2026 Carnival.Photo by Devika Ragoonanan
On Monday and Tuesday afternoons, masqueraders in colorful costumes filled the streets of various cities across the country.
Kes performing at Kuchela fete in Trinidad.Photo by Devika Ragoonanan
It is a vibrant display of our culture, food, music, and the warmth of the people, which can be seen and felt during this time. People from all over the world travel to Trinidad to witness and take part in these festivities. From Calypso to Soca, to Chutney, to the sweet rhythm of the steel pan, it is truly a one-of-a-kind experience, filled with love, unity, and pure happiness, which represents us as a people.
Kalifa Williams and Associate children’s mas band presents “Under The Sea” at Couva Carnival in Trinidad.Photo by Devika Ragoonanan
Major competitions and results are:
Chutney-Soca Monarch – Savita Singh signing “The Ring.”
National Calypso Monarch – Terri Lyons singing ” Blessings.”
King of Carnival – Curtis Eustace portraying “Spirit of Mandingo, Ah African Legend.”
Queen of Carnival – Roxanne Omalo portraying “Duchess of the Dark Skies.”
