MP Joel Sampson Praises Tobago Carnival’s Economic Impact And Growing Appeal
Tobago West MP Joel Sampson has hailed the 2026 edition of Tobago Carnival as a resounding success, citing strong participation, increased economic activity and a growing international profile for the festival.
Speaking at his constituency office in Crown Point, he said Tobago Carnival has continued to evolve over the five years of its existence, attracting thousands of revellers and generating significant benefits for the island’s economy.
« It was an excellent season for Tobago. It was excellent in terms of the masqueraders who are supposed to be on the island, the economic activity, the economic boost, overall, excellent, excellent, excellent. Kudos to the Tobago House of Assembly. »
Highlights for Mr Sampson were the events and his participation in traditional mas.
« I was at Stink and Dutty, I was at Comfort Inn, I was on the road for mas, but I think Stink and Dutty was my highlight; that was my high point. »
Meanwhile, the Tobago West MP was impressed with the increased quality of the music produced by the island’s Soca artistes and the fact that their music was being embraced.
« They have improved. Their product is now at a higher level and continues to grow, and persons outside of the space are realising, ‘Hey, Tobago has something good to offer, and the product is getting much better’, so I look forward to these artistes gaining some opportunities outside of Tobago in other carnivals. »
MP Sampson said further evidence of the festival’s growing international appeal came from visitors he encountered during Carnival celebrations.
« Even while on the road I met with some persons, and they said they were from Cameroon, said they heard about the Carnival and decided to come, and they said they have enjoyed it and they would encourage more friends to come. »
MP Sampson pledged his continued support for Tobago Carnival and encouraged businesses to keep improving their products and services to ensure the festival continues to be a success.
