First-timers

Packing and booking checklist

Everything to book, pack and remember for Carnival 2027, from flights to J'ouvert goggles. Tick things off as you go and print it when you are ready.

What to book when

Counted back from Carnival 2027, Mon 8 - Tue 9 Feb 2027. Dates move every year because Carnival is tied to Easter.

April to August 2026
Do this now
Flights and accommodation
Book flights into Piarco International Airport (POS) and somewhere to stay. Both get scarce and expensive close to Carnival. Port of Spain, Woodbrook, St. Clair and the areas around them are convenient for the parade.
Often around the middle of 2026
Band launches and registration
Bands unveil their costumes at launch events and open registration around them. Popular sections can fill quickly, so have your sizes and payment ready.
August to November 2026
Now
J'ouvert and fete tickets
Decide whether to join a J'ouvert band and start buying tickets for the fetes you most want. The best-known all-inclusives can sell out.
November 2026 to January 2027
Coming up
Shows, transport and insurance
Book Panorama and Dimanche Gras tickets once they go on sale, arrange your airport transfer and a reliable driver or transport plan for Carnival weekend, and buy travel insurance.
The final weeks before 8 February 2027
Coming up
Confirm the details
Confirm costume collection dates and times, where your mas camp is, and your band's assembly point and times for Monday and Tuesday.