The Anguilla Tourist Board (ATB) has once again thrown its enthusiastic support behind the island’s most anticipated cultural extravaganza, the Anguilla Summer Festival, by committing a generous EC$70,000. This substantial contribution, announced at a lively presentation held at Leon’s at Malliouhana on Sunday, 13th July 2025, also extends to beloved carnival staples such as the Poker Run, Eyes Wide Shut, and the Anguilla Boat Racing Association, ensuring these cherished events continue to thrive.
“We are always happy to support premier carnival events and anything that has to do with our culture,” declared Mr. Jameel Rochester, Director of Tourism at the Anguilla Tourist Board. The Anguilla Tourist Board’s involvement is part of its broader mission to promote not only travel to Anguilla, but sustainable, authentic cultural experiences.
Mr. Rochester continued, beaming with national pride, “Anguilla was recently rated number one best destination in the Caribbean, Bermuda and the Bahamas by Travel + Leisure readers. And that’s something for us to be grateful for as a destination. Anguilla has continuously shown that it’s our people, our resilience and our unique experiences that put us ahead of other destinations. And these are what we want to continue to promote in our destination as well.”
With these encouraging words, Mr. Rochester then called forward the representatives from the Anguilla Boat Racing Association, Anguilla Summer Festival, Poker Run, and Eyes Wide Shut, to collectively receive the EC$70,000 cheque. It was more than just a handover – it was a reminder that Carnival isn’t just a party; it’s a preservation of identity, a boost to the local economy, and a time when Anguillians at home and abroad come together for something bigger than themselves.
The spirit of collaboration and community support didn’t stop there. The team at Malliouhana Resort offered invaluable accommodation contributions. Mr. Fitzroy “Briggy” Tomlinson, chairman of the Anguilla Summer Festival, was called upon to sign the necessary documents alongside Mr. Logan Miller, Managing Director at Malliouhana, solidifying their generous support for Carnival.
Ms. Meesha Richardson, Sales and Marketing Manager at Malliouhana, shared her delight at their involvement. “I am so proud to be a part of a team that understands the significance of contributing to the Anguilla Summer Festival.”
She continued, “Every year we’re going to try our best to contribute to Carnival and the arts and culture in Anguilla, because it is something that’s so significant.”
Ms. Patricia Bygrave, General Manager of Long Bay Villas by Malliouhana and Santosha Villa Estate by Malliouhana, also presented and signed a contract, alongside Mr. Tomlinson, guaranteeing accommodation rooms to visitors for the Summer Festival.
The Hon. Minister of Tourism, Mr. Cardigan Connor extended heartfelt thanks to all who work behind the scenes to keep culture moving forward. He reminded the audience that Carnival is not only about celebration, but also remembrance and appreciation — including those who helped build Anguilla’s reputation from the ground up, particularly highlighting the late Ms. Sue Ricketts.
“When you think about the people who made Anguilla what it is today, especially through tourism – it’s people like her.”
He added a personal note about Meads Bay and its legacy on August Thursday, highlighting how deeply connected places and people are to Anguilla’s Carnival history.
As the island gears up for the festivities, a special invitation was also extended to all to attend the “Carnival at Leon’s” Beach and Brunch event. Set to take place at Leon’s on 3rd August 2025, starting at 11 am, it promises to be a delightful and delicious addition to the Anguilla Summer Festival calendar.
With EC$70,000 invested, contracts signed, and the beat of Carnival getting louder by the day, one thing is certain: this Summer Festival is shaping up to be another one for the books.
