Every Band, Every Category
Choosing your mas band is the biggest decision you’ll make for Trinidad Carnival 2027. This guide brings together every registered band in one place
Most Trinidad Carnival 2027 bands have now launched and registration is underway. Before public registration opens, many bands invite returning masqueraders to pre-register through their section leaders or committee members, giving past players early access to secure their preferred costumes. As a result, some of the most popular sections in premium bands can have limited availability shortly after public registration begins. Use this guide to compare every registered band.
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
2027 Presentation: Stories of the Sand
| Category | Large |
| Price Range | $1,100 – $2,500+ USD |
| Sections | ~9 |
| 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
2027 Presentation: Elysia
| Category | Large |
| Price Range | $1,200 – $2,800+ USD |
| Sections | ~17 |
| 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
2027 Presentation: Horizon
| Category | Large |
| Price Range | $1,100 – $2,500+ USD |
| Sections | ~12 |
| 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
2027 Presentation: Ferocious
| Category | Large |
| Price Range | $900 – $1,800 USD |
| Sections | ~13 |
| 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
2027 Presentation: Whispers of the Medina
| Category | Large |
| Price Range | $900 – $1,800 USD |
| Sections | ~9 |
| 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
2027 Presentation: The Mystical Garden
| Category | Large |
| Price Range | $800 – $1,600 USD |
| Sections | ~11 |
| 2026 Standing | #4 Large Band |
| Days | Mon or Mon + Tues |
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
2027 Presentation: Cosmic Chaos
| Category | Large |
| Price Range | $900 – $1,200 USD |
| Sections | ~8 |
| 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
2027 Presentation: LORE — The Story of a Mythical Forest
| Category | Large |
| Price Range | $1,100 – $1,500 USD |
| Sections | ~10 |
| 2026 Standing | #7 Large Band |
Showtime Mas
Showtime Mas has quickly established itself as a competitive large Carnival band, offering a more budget-friendly alternative to some of Trinidad’s premium bands. With costume prices generally lower than TRIBE, it’s worth considering if you’re looking for a full large-band experience without paying top-tier prices.
Vibe: High-energy, modern, value-focused
Best for: Masqueraders who want a large-band experience at a lower price point than TRIBE.
2027 Presentation: Take Off
| Category | Large |
| Price Range | $700 – $1,500 USD |
| Sections | ~10–15 |
| 2026 Standing | #6 Large Band |
Kalicharan Mas
Rooted in San Fernando, South Trinidad, Kalicharan Mas brings a proud tradition of Carnival excellence to the road. With 33 Band of the Year titles in San Fernando, this band offers a distinctive option for masqueraders looking to experience Carnival beyond the major bands based in Port of Spain.
Vibe: Traditional, community-driven, and proudly South Trinidadian
Best for: Masqueraders interested in San Fernando Carnival and a band with a long history of success.
2027 Presentation: Revel
| Location | San Fernando, South Trinidad |
| Category | Large – San Fernando mas band |
| Sections | 6 |
| Band of the Year | 33-time San Fernando winner |
Trinidad All Stars Orchestra
One of Trinidad’s most historic mas bands, Trinidad All Stars is best known for preserving the tradition of Sailor Mas. Unlike most modern costume bands, it offers a cultural Carnival experience rooted in Trinidad’s history. The band won Large Band of the Year in 2014 and 2015.
Vibe: High-energy, Traditional mas, value -focused
Best for: Masqueraders who want to experience Sailor mas with powder
| Category | Large |
| Price Range | Price not listed |
| Sections | ~1 |
| 2026 Standing | #2 Large Band |
Bacchanal Army
A high-energy Monday-only experience perfect for masqueraders who want to hit the road without committing to the full two-day Carnival experience.
Known for its lively atmosphere, strong vibes and party energy, Bacchanal Army is a great entry point for visitors looking to experience Trinidad Carnival on a smaller scale.
Vibe: High-energy, social, road-party atmosphere
Best for: Travelers, first-timers, and visitors looking for a one-day Carnival experience without the commitment of playing both days
2027 Presentation: Take Over Town
| Category | Small |
| Price Range | $475 USD |
| Sections | ~3 |
| 2026 Standing | NS (non-competing) |
| Days | Mon Only |
Xzotik Mas is one of the newest mas bands for Trinidad Carnival 2027 and is now accepting registrations. With costume options at prices that are notably lower than many of the larger bands, Xzotik Mas is worth considering if you’re looking for a more affordable way to play mas.
The band’s 2027 presentation is “Rejuvenate”, featuring sections including Grassroots, Ensconce, The Spark, Solitude, Twinkle and Success. Registration is currently live.
Register with Xzotik MasTuesdey Mas is a brand-new Carnival experience debuting for Trinidad Carnival 2028. Created by artist Che Lovelace and musician Kees Dieffenthaller.
Visit Tuesdey MasMedium 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 | Visit | Price Range (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Hott Stuff Promotions | Visit Hott Stuff | $300 |
| Kinetic Mas | Visit Kinetic Mas | TBD |
| Ombre Mas | Visit Ombre Mas | $100 – $300 |
| Petle Mas | Visit Petle Mas | Not participating |
| Image Nation | Visit Image Nation | Not participating |
| Exousia Mas | Visit Exousia Mas | $240 – $560 |
| Chapala Mas | Visit Chapala Mas | $413 – $1000 |
| Platinum Carnival | Visit Platinum Carnival | $$295 – $530 |
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 Trinidad Carnival Band Is Right for You?
Playing mas is the heart of Trinidad Carnival 2027 (February 8 and 9). These matches come from what real masqueraders say in the Carnival groups: who each band suits, and why. Find the line that sounds like you.
“I want the biggest party, the biggest crowd, and the most popular band.”
Your match
TRIBE
The name everyone knows. Registration goes through a committee member, so start early.
“I care most about beautiful costumes, creativity, and costume craftsmanship.”
Your match
The Lost Tribe
The artistry pick, with a celebrated all-sizes welcome. Masqueraders describe the stage crossing as euphoric.
“I want high-energy vibes, younger masqueraders and a lively social scene.”
Your match
YUMA
The vibes pick. First-timers call it “VIBES!!!” and costumes run cheaper than TRIBE.
“I’m a first-timer and I want great value without paying top-tier prices.”
Your match
Paparazzi
Easy online signup, no committee member needed. Diverse 30-to-50 crowd, strong food, DJs, and vibes from start to finish.
“I want to play with a band that has deep roots in Trinidad Carnival.”
Your match
Harts
Family-friendly and traditional, with beautiful costumes since the 1960s.
“I’m looking for the most affordable way to experience Trinidad Carnival.”
Your match
Smaller independent bands
Exousia and Utopia Mas get shout-outs for friendly prices and warm welcomes.
“I only want to play mas for one day, not the full two days.”
Your match
Bacchanal Army
Their Monday-only “Take Over Town” experience is built for exactly this: one day on the road without the two-day commitment or price.
“I want the cheapest costume I can find, full stop.”
Your match
Hott Stuff
Their 2027 costume is $2,000 TTD (about $295 USD) all-inclusive, the lowest verified price this season.
See all 2027 bands, prices and registration info
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.
Interested in J’ouvert on Carnival Monday?
If you’re not looking to commit to playing mas all day Monday, J’ouvert is another way to experience Carnival.
The entry point is much lower in cost, and you’re only taking part for a few hours on Monday morning. But more than anything, J’ouvert is a raw expression of Carnival. It’s early, energetic, messy and completely different from playing mas.
If that sounds like the kind of Carnival experience you’re looking for, I’ve put together a list of the J’ouvert bands for Trinidad Carnival 2027.
Trinidad Mas Bands FAQ
The best time to choose your band is before launches go live. Most major bands open registration between June and August and popular sections can sell out within hours or days. If you already have a vibe in mind, decide early so you’re ready when costumes drop.
Large bands deliver the biggest road experience with thousands of masqueraders, full amenities, and high-energy vibes. Medium bands are more intimate, balancing creativity, price, and crowd size. Small bands offer the most personal experience, often rooted in tradition, with lower prices and tighter communities.
Costumes generally range from about $150 USD in smaller bands to $2,500+ USD in premium large bands. Beyond the costume, most people also budget for flights, accommodation, fetes, transport and other Carnival expenses. Your total cost depends on your band and travel style.
First-timers often choose TRIBE, BLISS, Spirit Mas, or YUMA depending on their vibe. TRIBE offers a seamless, high-energy experience, BLISS is more intimate and premium, Spirit Mas has a strong international community feel.
Yes. Popular sections in major bands often sell out quickly after launch, especially frontline costumes and high-demand colours. Some sections go within hours. If you have your heart set on a band, early registration is essential.
Yes. Trinidad Carnival is open to international masqueraders, and most bands are set up for online registration. You simply choose your band, select a costume section, and secure your spot early. Many bands also provide support for overseas participants.
Focus on comfort, budget, and how you want your Carnival experience to feel. Frontline costumes are more dramatic but heavier, while backline options are lighter and easier for a full day on the road. For first-timers, comfort often matters more than size or detail.
After registering, you’ll receive confirmation from your band along with updates on costume production. In the months leading up to Carnival, bands share pickup details, event schedules, and road instructions so you’re fully prepared for the experience.
Updated for Trinidad Carnival 2027.
Band information will be updated as official details are released. For the latest prices, registration information, costume options, package details, routes, meeting points and other band-specific information, please check the band’s official website or social media pages.
