Every Band, Every Category
Choosing your mas band is the most important Carnival decision you will make. This is the complete list of registered senior bands from the 2026 season, organized by category, with pricing, section counts and direct links to register.
Band launches for 2027 run June – August 2026. Sections in premium large bands sell out within 24–72 hours of launch. Decide your band before launch day, not after.
Large Bands
Large bands are the main event. Thousands of masqueraders, full road amenities, unlimited drinks, meals, security and on-road support for two days. 2026 Band of the Year (Large): The Lost Tribe.
The Lost Tribe – 2026 Band of the Year (Large)
The artistic heart of Trinidad Carnival. Known for deeply conceptual themes and storytelling-driven mas design. Their 2026 presentation “Island Circus” won Band of the Year (Large) with a score of 1,351.
Vibe: Creative, cultural, design-forward
Best for: Masqueraders who care about costume artistry and storytelling as much as the road party
| Category | Large |
| Price Range | $1,100 – $2,500+ USD |
| Sections | ~12–15 |
| 2026 Standing | #1 Large Band |
TRIBE
The biggest name on the road. TRIBE delivers the most polished all-inclusive road experience in Trinidad Carnival. Massive crowd, top-tier amenities and the strongest international following.
Vibe: Premium, high-energy, international crowd
Best for: First-timers who want a seamless, fully supported road experience
| Category | Large |
| Price Range | $1,500 – $2,800+ USD |
| Sections | ~20+ |
| 2026 Standing | NS (non-competing) |
BLISS
TRIBE’s sister band – same premium road experience in a smaller, more intimate setting. BLISS is the go-to for masqueraders who want TRIBE-quality amenities without the scale of the largest band on the road.
Vibe: Elegant, intimate, premium
Best for: People who want the TRIBE experience with a tighter, more personal feel
| Category | Large |
| Price Range | $1,100 – $2,500+ USD |
| Sections | ~10–14 |
| 2026 Standing | NS (non-competing) |
YUMA
Known for bold costume design and a high-energy, fashion-forward crowd. YUMA’s 2027 theme is FEROCIOUS, band launch June 27, 2026. One of the most sought-after bands for the diaspora crowd.
Vibe: High energy, bold, fashion-forward, younger crowd
Best for: People who want standout costume design and a vibrant road atmosphere
| Category | Large |
| Price Range | $900 – $1,800 USD |
| Sections | ~15–20 |
| 2026 Standing | #8 Large Band |
Paparazzi Carnival
A strong mid-to-large band with competitive costumes at a more accessible price point than TRIBE or Lost Tribe. Placed #3 in Large Band of the Year 2026 with a score of 1,149.
Vibe: Fun, accessible, competitive
Best for: Masqueraders who want a solid all-inclusive experience at a mid-range price
| Category | Large |
| Price Range | $900 – $1,800 USD |
| Sections | ~10–15 |
| 2026 Standing | #3 Large Band |
RC Mas Band
A well-established large band known for colourful costumes and an inclusive, community atmosphere. Good entry point for first-timers who want a large band at a more accessible price. Placed #4 in Large Band of the Year 2026.
Vibe: Inclusive, colourful, community feel
Best for: Budget-conscious masqueraders who still want a large band experience
| Category | Large |
| Price Range | $600 – $1,600 USD |
| Sections | ~10–15 |
| 2026 Standing | #4 Large Band |
Harts Carnival Band
One of the oldest bands on the road, established since the 1960s. Harts is known for a family-friendly atmosphere, traditional values and beautiful costumes. Placed #9 in Large Band of the Year 2026.
Vibe: Traditional, family-friendly, heritage
Best for: Masqueraders who appreciate Carnival tradition and want a relaxed road atmosphere
| Category | Large |
| Price Range | $500 – $1,200 USD |
| Sections | ~10–15 |
| 2026 Standing | #9 Large Band |
Spirit Mas
A growing large band with a strong diaspora following and active social media presence. Popular with first-timers coming from North America and the UK. Placed #7 in Large Band of the Year 2026.
Vibe: Social, diaspora-friendly, fun
Best for: First-timers coming from overseas who want an active, connected band community
| Category | Large |
| Price Range | $700 – $1,500 USD |
| Sections | ~10–15 |
| 2026 Standing | #7 Large Band |
Medium Bands
Medium bands offer a more intimate road experience with smaller crowds, often more creative costume design, and lower price points. 2026 Band of the Year (Medium): K2K Alliance.
| Band | 2026 Placing | Price Range (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| K2K Alliance & Partners | #1 Medium | $400 – $900 |
| Kinetic Mas | #2 Medium | $400 – $900 |
| Ombre Mas | #3 Medium | $400 – $800 |
| Petle Mas | #4 Medium | $350 – $800 |
| Image Nation | #5 Medium | $350 – $750 |
| Exousia Mas | #6 Medium | $350 – $750 |
| Chapala Mas | #7 Medium | $350 – $750 |
| Platinum Carnival | #8 Medium | $350 – $700 |
Small Bands
Small bands are the most intimate Carnival experience, tighter crews, traditional mas design and a strong community feel. The most accessible price point for playing mas. 2026 Band of the Year (Small): Tribal Connection Cultural Promotion.
| Band | 2026 Placing | Price Range (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Tribal Connection Cultural Promotion | #1 Small | $150 – $500 |
| The Original Jab Jab | #2 Small | $150 – $400 |
| Antourage Productions | #3 Small | $150 – $400 |
| Vibez Mas | #4 Small | $150 – $400 |
| Awe Carnival | #6 Small | $150 – $400 |
Which Band Is Right for You?
| You want… | Play with… |
|---|---|
| Biggest crowd, smoothest road experience | TRIBE |
| Award-winning costume artistry and cultural depth | The Lost Tribe |
| TRIBE quality, smaller and more intimate | BLISS |
| High energy, bold designs, younger crowd | YUMA |
| Solid all-inclusive at a mid-range price | Paparazzi or RC Mas |
| Traditional Carnival heritage | Harts |
| Diaspora-friendly, social, connected community | Spirit Mas |
| Most affordable entry to mas | Small or medium band |
Pricing and section counts are based on 2026 band launches and will be updated as 2027 registrations open. Band launches typically run June–August 2026.
Know Your Band. Now Budget It.
Once you know which band you are playing with, use the Carnival Cost Calculator to build your full 2027 budget; costume, flights, accommodation, fetes and beauty all in one place.
Free to use. Covers flights, accommodation, costume, fetes, beauty and transport. Switch between USD and TTD.
What are the most popular mas bands for Trinidad Carnival 2027?
When do mas band launches happen for Trinidad Carnival 2027?
How do I register for a mas band in Trinidad?
How much does a mas band costume cost for Trinidad Carnival 2027?
If you want a more precise estimate based on your travel style, you can use the carnival cost calculator to plan your full trip budget.
What’s the difference between a frontline and backline costume?
Also it’s very difficult carrying a backpack for 8hrs in the HOT sun
