Patrons can look forward to an 'out of this world' experience at The University of the West Indies (UWI) Mona Carnival, as it promises to be a phenomenal event from March 16 to 19.

According to UWI Guild Vice-President for Services and Special Projects Jhe'Vonte Webster, "The theme for this year is 'The Ethereal Experience', meaning an experience that's out of this world and never been seen before. UWI Carnival is the guild's flagship event that generally attracts patronage of over 15,000. This year we aren't leaving any stones unturned," he said.

A new event will be added to the carnival line-up this year, which usually involves the launch party, J'Ouvert, road march, and beach party.

"The guild is partnering with Campus Elite to add another event to the line-up, D'AfterMas. This event is an after-party for the Ring Road and seeks to add to the experience of our patrons as it will be featuring top acts such as dancehall artiste Valiant, as well as top DJs from across the country," added Webster.

The weekend's proceedings will begin with the launch party, which will be held on the lawns of The UWI's Old Library on March 16, followed by J'Ouvert (Aurora Edition) March 17, then Road March and D'AfterMas on March 18. The weekend's will end on Sunday, March 19, with a party at Sugarman's Beach in St Catherine.

Webster said the stakeholders are anticipating a massive attendance at the event.

"Due to the fact that UWI Carnival will be making its return for over three years, we anticipate a massive turnout and as such the experience provided by the organisers will be second to none. All the creative elements and moving parts promises to ensure this staging will be one to remember for the history books," he said.