Dear Nationals and Friends,

Forty-five years ago, Antigua and Barbuda took its rightful place among the community of sovereign nations. Since then, we have charted a remarkable journey of growth, resilience, and achievement. This milestone is not only a celebration for those at home, but for all Antiguans and Barbudans around the world — and in particular, for our dynamic and distinguished diaspora here in Canada.

Antigua and Barbuda will host the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) from November 1–4, 2026, under the theme “Accelerating Partnerships and Investment for a Prosperous Commonwealth.” According to the Commonwealth Secretariat, the summit will bring together leaders from the 56-member Commonwealth to address priorities including climate resilience, trade, innovation, equality and sustainable development.

Antigua and Barbuda Culinary Month is a celebration of the islands’ food, culinary talent, and cultural heritage. Held throughout May, it brings residents and visitors together through Restaurant Week, local dining experiences, guest-chef collaboration dinners, the Food, Art & Beverage (FAB) Festival, and the Caribbean Food Forum. Together, these events offer an opportunity to discover the islands through their flavours and the people who create them.

Remembering Chef Andrew “Andy” James

Antigua and Barbuda has lost a beloved chef, husband, and friend with the passing of Chef Andrew James, affectionately known as Andy.

The Consulate-General is happy to present HIGH TEA, a fundraising event to assist in the work undertaken by Antigua and Barbuda Emergency Relief Canada. HIGH TEA will be held on the 19th July 2026 at the Bayview Golf Club. The event is being held under the auspices of the Honourable EP Chet Greene & Mrs. Greene.

Born in St. Johns, Antigua on June 27, 1947, Lurvey dedicated his life to education, community service, and ministry. Over a distinguished career, he served in every aspect of education from teacher, Vice Principal, Principal, and Supervisory Officer, passionately advocating for education and empowering others to pursue excellence.

Investing in the Arts as Economic Policy

 Andre Henry passed away peacefully Thursday, February 12, 2026 at Toronto General Hospital, surrounded by family and friends, following complications from emergency surgery.

Andre cherished his friendships and the meaningful connections he built throughout his life. He was always ready with a warm smile, a helping hand, or a thoughtful word, and he had a remarkable gift for making everyone feel seen and valued.

The Economic Value of Arts and Culture

Globally, cultural tourism represents one of the fastest-growing sectors of the travel industry. Studies by international tourism organizations estimate that roughly 40 percent of global tourism activity involves cultural experiences, including museums, heritage sites, festivals, music, and the performing arts.
In destinations where tourism dominates the economy, these cultural experiences become powerful economic multipliers. Visitors who engage with arts and heritage tend to:

Tourism has long been the economic backbone of Antigua and Barbuda, contributing more than half of the country’s Gross Domestic Product and supporting a significant share of national employment. Visitors are often drawn first by the island’s famous beaches and warm climate, but the experiences that truly define a destination—and encourage travelers to stay longer or return—are rooted in culture, history, and the arts.