By: Precious Mills
BASSETERRE, St. Kitts (Thursday 18th June 2026) — “Everything you do, all of the sacrifices, your time really goes towards the success of the St. Kitts Music Festival and we are eternally grateful.” That was the opening message from Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Tourism Tivanna Wharton, as stakeholders gathered on Thursday 18th June 2026 at the Warner Park Cricket Stadium event venue ahead of the 28th staging of the St. Kitts Music Festival, set for Thursday 25th to Saturday 27th June 2026. With subcommittee representatives from Artiste Liaison, Transportation, Safety and Security, Accreditation, Media Management, Hospitality, volunteers and media professionals among those in attendance, Wharton underscored that the meeting was critical given new systems being introduced this year.
One of the major talking points was the introduction of a QR-based accreditation system, designed to improve entry and movement across festival zones. Wharton applauded stakeholders for embracing the new system and the level of preparation already underway, noting it forms part of strengthening efficiency and accountability at the festival. She emphasised that professionalism and attitude will be just as important as logistics: “We want to make sure that we’re all ambassadors — not just for the St. Kitts Music Festival, but for our country. We must be courteous when we speak to our guests.” Wharton also reminded stakeholders that every role within the festival structure is essential: “No matter how small we think our role is, if you are not here, the music festival will not happen.” She urged continued communication in the final days of preparation and said: “This year’s music festival promises to be one of the biggest and the baddest. We got all big names on the show.”