Guyana Carnival unveils “Wildlife” theme & costumes for 2027 season

Guyana Carnival officially launched its 2027 season on Monday, unveiling a vibrant collection of costumes under the theme “Wildlife.” The 2027 theme pays homage to Guyana’s extraordinary natural beauty and the rich flora and fauna for which the country is renowned.

For the upcoming season, that beauty will be brought to life through mas, with costumes drawing inspiration from some of the country’s most striking birds, butterflies and other elements of the wild.

The launch featured presentations from Genesis the Band, Decoded Carnival, Crystal Ivy and Caribbean Power Jam, alongside roadwear from BOOMNATION and package options for the popular Stink & Dutty J’Ouvert experience.

Genesis the Band unveiled two sections for the 2027 road experience: Rosé – Roseate Spoonbill, designed by Elytes by Jen, and Jeweled Nectar, designed by Lauren x Austin.

Inspired by the Roseate Spoonbill, Rosé embraces soft pink tones and the elegance of one of the region’s most distinctive birds. The costume is adorned with thousands of shimmering pink gems and complemented by layers of light-coloured feathers, creating a dramatic yet feminine presentation. With the tagline “Sweet in pink, wild in mas,” Rosé will be available in Curvy, Frontline and Backline options.

Genesis’ second option, Jeweled Nectar, is a dazzling, gem-covered portrayal inspired by the hummingbird with colors like pink, teal and orange. It is designed for both men and women by Brittany Wood. The Ultra Frontline and Frontline presentations incorporate elaborate wings, embellishment and hummingbird-inspired accents around the shoulders to recreate the beauty and energy of the bird. Its tagline, “Where every wingbeat is a taste of temptation,” captures the bold and seductive character of the section. Genesis the Band costumes will be available for purchase from October 15 via HJEXPERIENCE.COM, with payment plans starting as low as $100.

Decoded Carnival unveiled Melelaus Butterfly, designed through a collaboration between Decoded and Olympia’s Fashion. It was inspired by the rare butterfly found within Guyana’s rainforests and offers a shimmering orange option and a bold blue costume, with a matching bedazzled butterfly like wing.

Designed by Jermaine Broomes, Crystal Ivy’s 2027 presentation celebrates the breathtaking Scarlet Ibis. The collection uses rich tropical reds, feathers, flowing silhouettes and dramatic detailing to capture the bird’s striking appearance and graceful movement. Crystal Ivy will offer five options: Wings of Scarlet – Ultra Frontline, Ibis Allure – Frontline, Crimson Seduction – Backline, Crimson Knight – Male Costume and Scarlet Essence – T-Shirt option.

Caribbean Power Jam introduced King Vultra, designed by Preston Paul and inspired by the brilliantly coloured vultures found within Guyana’s rainforest ecosystem. Featuring bold shades of orange, green, blue and pink, the costume includes large feathered wings for the frontline and ultra-frontline options, along with LED gemstones inspired by the bird’s vibrant colours.

BOOMNATION also introduced its 2027 bodywear presentation, Canje Pheasant, designed by DesignsbyCi. This royal blue piece is perfect for those who want something different from the traditional costume look while still standing out on the road. The design is inspired by one of Guyana’s most treasured birds.

Costume and package options for Stink & Dutty J’Ouvert were also revealed during the launch. Designed by Haus of Mavelle, the J’Ouvert looks provide patrons with another opportunity to immerse themselves in the 2027 Carnival experience beyond the main road parade.

More bands and costume presentations are expected to be unveiled as Guyana Carnival continues its rollout for the 2027 season, with Mas Mani, Allure and Yemaya Mas among those still to come.

Earlier this summer in New York, Euphoria, Fete-Ish, Muse and Decoded unveiled their 2027 costume options during Soca & Wine: Shades of an Apple, giving patrons an early look at what they will bring to the road.

Additionally, Guyana Carnival has partnered with Mile High Travels to make travel to the 2027 season easier and more convenient through Flight+ — an all-in-one travel package offering flights, hotel accommodation, event tickets and costumes. Packages can be secured with a $250 USD deposit, with dedicated flights operating from May 4 to June 5, 2027, connecting Guyana with New York, Barbados and Trinidad.

What began in 2019 as the Carnival no one saw coming has developed into an evolving national entertainment brand that continues to attract attention from Guyanese at home, the diaspora and visitors from across the Caribbean and further afield. In 2027, organisers anticipate another major turnout as thousands to be a part of the Guyana Carnival road experience. Patrons are encouraged to follow Guyana Carnival on social media for additional costume launches, event announcements and information on the 2027 season. (HJ Entertainment)