The Tobago Festivals Commission proudly presents the Monarchs of Mas – Individuals Competition 2025, a vibrant showcase of Tobago’s rich Carnival culture and creativity. This event provides a dedicated space for individual masqueraders and designers to express themselves through imaginative, innovative, and culturally-rooted portrayals of mas.

Event Overview

Date: Friday 17th October 2025
Venue: Main Stage (Market Square), Scarborough, Tobago
Start Time: 8:00 PM
Performance Duration: Maximum 3.5 minutes per participant

This event celebrates individual creativity through portrayals inspired by traditional mas, folklore, history, or completely original concepts. It is a designer-focused competition that honours the artistry, performance, and storytelling aspects of mas through a solo presentation.

Creative Guide

Participants may draw inspiration from the following categories:

• Creative: Conceptual and imaginative portrayals
• Carnival/Folk Fantasy: Depictions based on folklore and fanciful Caribbean themes
• Historical: Cultural or historical representations

Designs may reflect one or a fusion of these elements.

Event Highlights

• Inclusivity: Open to all genders, races, and body types; celebrates authenticity and expression.
• Cultural Heritage: Encourages portrayals rooted in pan, mud mas, traditional mas, and contemporary creativity.
• Designer-Focused: A platform for individual mas creators to shine, independent of bands.

Creative Experience: Adds a critical dimension to the Tobago Carnival through standalone masquerade performance.

Objectives

• Cultural Expression: Provide a space for authentic and bold expression through costume.
• Community Engagement: Involve locals and visitors in an immersive cultural experience.
• Economic Impact: Support tourism and generate opportunities for creatives and artisans.
• Brand Alignment: Offer sponsorship opportunities aligned with Tobago’s cultural identity.

Registration Details

• Registration Period: 5th August –19th August2025
• Eligibility: Must be a resident of Tobago and 17 years or older
• Entry Fee: None. Unregistered participants will not be allowed to compete.
• Submission: Completed forms must be submitted via www.welcometobago.com

Judging Criteria

Prizes

• 1st Place: $12,000.00
• 2nd Place: $10,000.00
• 3rd Place: $8,000.00
• 4th Place: $6,000.00
• 5th Place: $5,000.00
• 6th Place: $3,000.00
• 7th Place: $1,000.00
• 8th Place: $1,000.00