CARNIVAL 2026 is promising to be a celebration deeply rooted in local tradition while embracing innovation, with an eye toward expanding its global reach.

This is according to the Ministry of Culture and Community Development.

The ministry issued a media release on Wednesday after a meeting with Soca power couple Ian Alvarez (Bunji Garlin) and Fay-Ann Lyons-Alvarez.

Culture Minister Michelle Benjamin welcomed the two artistes to the ministry’s head office in Port of Spain as they discussed preparations for next year’s festivities.

The discussions centred on enhancing the Carnival experience and supporting local artistes, creatives and cultural stakeholders.

Key topics included the marketing and international promotion of Carnival 2026, with an emphasis on strengthening the global visibility of Trinidad and Tobago’s Carnival brand, the ministry stated.

Collaborative opportunities to amplify the creative industries and expand audience reach through strategic marketing and digital platforms were also discussed.

Also in attendance were the ministry’s parliamentary secretary Dr Narindra Roopnarine, the ministry’s permanent secretary Videsh Maharaj and Member of Parliament for Princes Town Dr Aiyna Ali.

The Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to meaningful partnerships with the cultural and creative sectors and expressed its gratitude to the couple for their valuable contributions to the ongoing national cultural dialogue, the release stated.