Dominica to Launch Mas Domnik 2026 on November 28 at The Factory

Public invited to experience the first official showcase of the 2026 Carnival season

The Ministry of Tourism and the Discover Dominica Authority (DDA) will host the official launch of Mas Domnik 2026 on Friday, November 28, from 5:30 p.m. at The Factory on Valley Road. The event is open to the public and will set the stage for the start of one of the Caribbean’s most vibrant and culturally rooted Carnival seasons.

Mas Domnik, celebrated as “The Real Mas,” is among the region’s oldest Carnival traditions. Its origins stem from masquerade practices of formerly enslaved individuals in the 1700s, evolving into a festival that blends African, European, French and Kalinago influences.

Today it remains a safe and welcoming celebration recognized for its authenticity and deep cultural expression.

A key feature of the launch will be the official presentation of the Miss Dominica 2026

contestants. This first public appearance introduces the young women who will serve as

cultural ambassadors throughout the season and participate in a pageant known for

highlighting leadership, talent and national pride.

Traditional mas will be showcased through performances from groups including Sennsé,

Mahaut Lapo Kabwit, the Big Boom-Boom Ladies, Bwa Bwa, Darkies, the Kalinago Tete

Mass and Ban Akiyo. Their appearances will spotlight the ancestral craftsmanship, rhythm and oral storytelling traditions that continue to define Mas Domnik’s cultural identity.

The entertainment lineup will bring together the island’s top musicians and DJs. Patrons will enjoy live performances from TK Combo and Riddim Knockaz along with musical sets by DJ MJ and MV on the Keys, DJ Taffy and Friends, DJ Sleem, DJ Snow and DJ Flip. Their combined energy is expected to ignite excitement and signal the start of an unforgettable Carnival season.

“Mas Domnik is one of our most powerful expressions of identity, creativity and resilience.

As we launch the 2026 season, we celebrate the traditions that shaped us while creating new opportunities for our people, our cultural practitioners and our tourism sector. I encourage everyone to come out and experience the spirit of community and pride that makes Dominica’s Carnival unlike any other in the region,” said Marva Williams, CEO of Discover Dominica Authority.

Residents and visitors are invited to join the celebration on November 28 and experience the traditions, creativity and communal spirit that make Mas Domnik truly unique. Those unable to attend in person can tune in to live coverage on Emonews, DBS Radio, Kairi FM and the Dominica Festivals Facebook page. The launch marks the official start of the 2026 Carnival season, which will culminate with the grand celebrations of Carnival Monday and Tuesday on February 16 and 17, 2026.