Dr. Hilaire dismissed the proposal as evidence that the Opposition Leader does not understand the structure, evolution, or cultural significance of Saint Lucia’s Carnival, noting that the festival already spans several months of events and activities.
“I don’t think there’s anybody in the present UWP who even understands what Carnival is about,” Hilaire said. “For someone to say they want to extend Carnival beyond being a two-day festival and beyond a month, well, Carnival already begins the moment Saint Lucia Jazz ends.”
He explained that as soon as the Saint Lucia Jazz and Arts Festival concludes, the Carnival season begins with calypso tents, community carnivals, band launches, and cultural events that continue through July and, in some cases, into August.
“The first calypso show is the weekend after Jazz,” he said. “We go right into community carnivals across the island. By the time we get to the national parade in July, we have already had months of Carnival activity. We are essentially talking about a cultural season that stretches nearly three months.”
Hilaire pointed to the sharp increase in visitor arrivals during Carnival 2025 as proof of the festival’s growing significance and effective planning.
“This year recorded the highest number of arrivals we have ever seen for Carnival. It is no longer just a show; it is a major economic driver for Saint Lucia,” he noted. “Carnival provides income for artists, costume builders, sound engineers, vendors, photographers, creatives, and communities. It is a whole ecosystem.”
The Minister also rejected Chastanet’s claim that a future UWP government would introduce a new dedicated event segment within Carnival, stating that such segments already exist and have been continuously expanding.
“There was a dedicated event segment last year in For Dor, unfortunately it was rained out,” he said. “This year we had one again, and we intend for it to continue into the future. These ideas are already being implemented. So when someone starts throwing out proposals without understanding what is already in place, it shows a disconnect.”
Hilaire accused the Opposition Leader of making statements aimed at excitement rather than substance.
“It’s not just about throwing out words and hoping they sound good,” he said. “Carnival has been developed strategically. It is structured. It is cultural pride and economic planning working together. If you don’t understand that, you shouldn’t speak on it.”
The Minister affirmed that the government will continue strengthening Carnival as a cultural industry built on sustainability, creative investment, and community participation.
“Carnival is ours,” he said. “We are building it with intention and understanding, not slogans.”