Allure Mass during St. Thomas 2022. Photo Credit: V.I. CONSORTUM | REEMY REEMZ PHOTOGRAPHY.
Six of the island’s Carnival mas troupes will unveil select 2026 costumes during a new preview event on Friday, December 5, when RT Promotions hosts its first Carnival Costume Sneak Peek at the Antilles School MCM Center and Gymnasium. The showcase aims to give revelers an early look at the upcoming St. Thomas Carnival season and provide the opportunity to register for costumes months ahead of April.
Organizer Patrick Farrell of RT Promotions said the concept was created to help both residents and off-island participants plan earlier. He noted that some revelers like to secure their sections long before Carnival, and early visibility can also influence travel decisions. Allowing the public to view the costumes five to six months in advance, he said, encourages earlier planning and supports the overall Carnival product.
The December 5 Sneak Peek will feature runway presentations from EPIC MAS, ALLURE MAS, PRODIGY, ULTIMATE LEGACY, EUPHORIA, and EXCLUSIV BY ANOUSH242. Farrell described the event as a full costume runway experience, giving attendees an unobstructed view of pieces in pristine condition—unaffected by rain, movement, or parade-day wear.
The event begins at 8:00 p.m. and continues “until the last troupe walks the runway,” according to the flyer. Farrell said the indoor venue at the MCM Center was selected to ensure ample space and protection from inclement weather.
Music will be provided by Deejay Black and DJ Malie, who will entertain between model segments and during the party portion following the final presentation.
Admission is $30 online, with higher pricing at the door. Tickets are available at Paradise Nails & Beauty Bar in 4 Winds Shopping Plaza and Paradise Party Décor in Wheatley Shopping Center #2.
Farrell confirmed that each participating troupe will have a registration table onsite, giving attendees the option to place costume orders immediately after viewing the presentations.
Event sponsors include Haugland Virgin Islands, the VI Council on the Arts, Crown Royal, and Hennessy Pure White. The event is produced by RT Promotions.
Farrell said the intention is to make Carnival Costume Sneak Peek an annual event showcasing St. Thomas Carnival’s creativity and giving participants an early start on the season.
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