For the second year in a row, Jamaican Carnival has been cancelled due to rising cases of COVID-19 across the island.

The event that was scheduled to take place on April 11, was announced as cancelled by Jamaica’s Tourism Minister Ed Bartlett yesterday, after what he said was lengthy consultations with the relevant stakeholders. 

Mr. Bartlett said, “We strongly believe it is in the best interest of our people and will aid in the Government’s fight to preserve lives and livelihoods, as we continue to see an increase in cases due to the COVID-19 pandemic.”

Jamaica recorded 458 new cases of COVID-19 yesterday and one additional death. The country has been averaging approximately 600 cases on a daily basis, with yesterday’s count bringing the total number of confirmed cases to 37,128 and the death toll to 546.

Bacchanal Jamaica, a major stakeholder in the event, posted a statement to their social media acknowledging the Minister’s announcement late last night.

The group said, “although as band owners we are disappointed that it’s still not safe to host our carnival, we know that with the current covid surge in Jamaica, April would not be in anyone’s best interest. We will have discussions with the government and once an agreement is final, an announcement will be made indicating the new dates.”