Every October, Tobago comes alive with a vibe that feels both familiar and refreshingly its own. Fondly known as "Bago" Carnival, it’s small enough to feel personal but big enough to draw visitors looking for more than just a party. Spend a Carnival weekend on the island and you’ll quickly see why it’s unfair to call it anyone’s “little sister.” Tobago Carnival isn’t trying to outshine anyone.... it’s carving out its own space, on its own terms!
In 2024, Tobago Carnival drew around 30,000 people, a mix of visitors and locals who dove into three days of mas, music, and revelry. The smaller scale makes the celebration intimate: you’re not swallowed by crowds, The mas is still spectacular, don’t get it twisted but it’s community-driven. There’s a sense that everyone has a stake in it, whether you’re a reveler. playing steelpan, or cooking crab and dumplings to sell along the parade route. Carnival here feels personal.
Tobago Carnival is a growing cultural movement with the power to boost tourism, spotlight local talent, and show a different face of Caribbean Carnival, one that’s intimate, grounded, and distinctly Tobagonian.
So it’s time we stop with the comparisons, Tobago Carnival doesn’t need to borrow shine... it creates its own glow! If you don’t believe me, go check it out for yourself. 2025 Tobago Carnival takes place October 24–26, with three days of mud, mas and music..... the type of magic you won’t find anywhere else. Let Tobago show you why its Carnival deserves to stand in the spotlight!
For more information on Tobago Carnival, visit: https://www.welcometobago.com/
Plan ahead: 2026 (Oct 30 - Nov 1) and 2027 (Oct 29-31).