2026 TNT Carnival under pressure because of lack of venues.

Promoters for the 2026 Trinidad Carnival are facing significant venue problems following the government’s ban on holding fetes and related events at all facilities controlled by the Urban Development Corporation of Trinidad and Tobago (UDeCOTT). This decision, announced in November 2025, less than 100 days before the carnival season begins, has left organisers scrambling to find alternative locations.

Government ban on UDeCOTT facilities: The ban specifically impacts key carnival locations, including the Brian Lara Cricket Academy and the International Waterfront Centre. The Trinidad and Tobago Promoters Association (TTPA) has condemned the decision, warning that there are not enough alternative venues in areas like the south to accommodate the large number of patrons.

The government’s top-down decision to ban events at UDeCOTT venues was made without consulting promoters, leaving them dismayed and blindsided. The TTPA has warned that the ban, combined with other factors like increased alcohol costs, could have a “catastrophic impact” on tourism, entertainment, and the creative economy.

Promoters have suggested alternative approaches, such as allowing them to pay a bond that would be forfeited if noise pollution regulations are violated. However, as of November 2025, no agreement has been reached.

Venue Status for 2026 Carnival Issues
Brian Lara Cricket Academy – Banned from carnival events. A key venue for large-capacity fetes in the south, its closure leaves organisers scrambling. The ban was prompted by noise complaints from residents.
International Waterfront Centre – Banned from carnival events. A major UDeCOTT-controlled space in Port of Spain, now unavailable.
UDeCOTT facilities – Banned for carnival events. All other UDeCOTT-controlled facilities are also off-limits for carnival events, reducing venue options across the country.
Queen’s Park Savannah North Stand – Potentially discontinued. A carnival promoter suggested transforming the North Stand into a larger “Carnival capital” venue, though this is a proposal for future years.

Sound Forge, Port of Spain. Available for smaller fetes. Some smaller, independent events are still scheduled at alternative locations like The Sound Forge.

The National Carnival Commission (NCC) and the Ministry of Culture and Community Development are working with the TTPA to find alternative venues. With just over 100 days until the festival, however, there is still significant uncertainty.