Ultra Carnival Dominates Sugar Mas 53: A Spectacle Of Tradition, Modern Revelry

Sugar Mas 53 reached a spectacular climax on Thursday in St. Kitts, with Ultra Carnival emerging as the undisputed star of the season.

Securing the prestigious Troupe of the Year title with an impressive 693 points, Ultra Carnival also claimed Queen of the Bands, King of the Bands, and Section of the Year.

Their presentation, The Stories of the West Indies, was a vivid celebration of Caribbean folklore, culture, and artistry that captivated both judges and spectators.

The SKELEC Grand Parade, the centerpiece of Sugar Mas, saw Luxe Carnival and Zus Carnival emerge as strong contenders. Luxe Carnival, with its mesmerising theme – Ocean Odyssey, Mysteries of the Underworld, secured the First Parade Day Troupe to Reveal All Costumes and SKELEC Most Powerful Troupe awards, amassing 673 points to finish as the first runner-up. Zus Carnival’s Nature’s Majesty earned them second runner-up honors with 528 points.

Other results include:

Queen of the Bands: Ultra Carnival – Nekirah Nicholls (De Market Women) – 663 points

King of the Bands: Ultra Carnival – Kajali Hanley-Gumbs (Papa Bois)– 665 points

Section of the Year: Ultra Carnival – The Tale of Anansi – 120 points

Troupe of the Year: Ultra Carnival – The Stories of the West Indies – 693 points

1st Runner-Up: Luxe Carnival – Ocean Odyssey, Mysteries of the Underworld – 673 points

2nd Runner-Up: Zus Carnival – Nature’s Majesty – 528 points

The Grand Parade, held on January 1 and 2, is the highlight of Sugar Mas, drawing thousands of revelers who flood the streets with music, dance, and vibrant costumes. Beyond its cultural significance, the carnival is a major economic driver for St. Kitts and Nevis.

“Sugar Mas 53 will undoubtedly be remembered as a milestone in the history of St. Kitts’ National Carnival and it is a testament to our island’s ability to honor its heritage while embracing the future,” one Kittitian told St Lucia Times.

“It is amazing, I love it and I will be back again,” said Sugar Mas reveler Vicky Tory out of Trinidad.

Shannon Hawley, Chairperson of the St. Kitts Carnival Committee, touted the economic impact stating, ”As the largest event on the island’s calendar, the economic impact is unquestionable. The positive impact of Sugar Mas is unquestionable,” she asserted

A local restaurant and bar owner Trevon Lapsey, reflecting on the impact, shared, “Carnival is a game-changer for us. The influx of visitors and locals boosts our business significantly. It brings in a lot of revenue. We see record sales during this period, and the festive atmosphere brings people together in ways that benefit the entire community.”

“St. Kitts Carnival truly delivered! From the pulsating high-energy rhythms in Basseterre during J’ouvert to the vibrant ambience of the parties and fetes, it was an unforgettable experience. The two parade days brought even more excitement,” remarked Sebastian, content creator of Bajan Tube.

Sugar Mas spans six weeks, from mid-November to January, culminating in the Grand Parade. This year’s celebrations showcased a harmonious blend of traditional storytelling, modern pageantry, and community spirit.