Dominica Govt approves budget of $1M for Mas Domnik Carnival 2024: Tourism Minister

The Minister of Tourism of Dominica, Denise Charles, announced that the Government has approved a budget of around $1 million for the upcoming Mas Domnik 'The Real Mas' 2024. This is the most anticipated Carnival of the Caribbean region. She made this announcement during the first press conference for the Carnival held on Wednesday at the Old Mill Cultural Center.

She announced, "The Dominica Labour Party Government, the headline sponsor for the Carnival, has officially approved a budget of around $1 million."

The Mas Domnik Carnival will run from January 6 to February 17, 2024, and will feature a number of events and activities.

During the conference, she also described the Carnival as the most original in the region, as the Government has always attempted to preserve its customs and integrate modern aspects to make sure that patrons enjoy an unforgettable experience on the island.

She also asked all the groups taking part in the opening parade and Carnival on Monday and Tuesday to be punctual.

Denise Charles also mentioned that, at present, the World Creole Music Festival is recognized as the biggest festive event in Dominica. But, she said that as of now Carnival attendance has also become constant at around 6000 visitors every year.

She also highlighted that the events and festivals in Dominica have a huge potential to boost the country's economy if the tourism ministry works hand in hand.

The Minister outlined, "Each sector will benefit highly from increased visitor arrivals from taxis, accommodation, tourism, and vendors, and it will surely make a stronger case for greater access to our country."

In addition to his, Charles also lauded all the organizers, groups, artistes, small business owners and companies whose collective efforts promises an exceptional display at the opening parade on January 6, 2024.

While mentioning the sponsors, which include FLOW, Josephine Gabriel, Belfast Estate, Dominica Lotteries Commission, J Astaphans, Fine Foods, Auto Trade and Ocean Edge, the Minister said, "Let me commend our good sponsors."

"Everyone knows the extraordinary work which goes into preparing the Carnival, particularly when it falls just after the Christmas decor as we packed away," she added.

Denise Charles Pemberton also encouraged everyone to stay calm and enjoy the carnival without any fights. She prayed for an incident-free Carnival Season in 2024 and to maintain the island's reputation for having the safest Carnival in the world.

After discussing the Carnival, the Minister encouraged everyone to reduce negativity by increasing positivity in 2024. Charles said that the resolutions for the New Year are to declare and speak positive things about the country.