The Antigua and Barbuda World Oral Health Day Parade 2026

(WE ALSO APPLIED FOR THE WOHD AWARDS)

The Antigua and Barbuda Dental Association staged an exciting, high-visibility national parade for World Oral Health Day, 20 March 2026 that brought the FDI message, “A Happy Mouth is a Happy Life,” directly into the streets and hearts of St. John’s. Our World Oral Health Day Parade featured the children of our Sunny Smiles Program where we have been taking dentistry into eight schools.  The parade began at the Lion’s Den of Lions Club International and proceeded through the downtown area along Cross Street, Redcliffe Street, Market Street, Newgate Street, and back to Cross Street, creating a strong public presence in the heart of the city, including major business and tourist areas.

Promotion began with radio advertisements featuring Toothie, the official FDI mascot, ending with our parade message and helping to build public anticipation and awareness. The parade opened with our police escort, followed by the Bon Appétit Drum Corps and bold 3 ft by 6 ft banners displaying the World Oral Health Day message and the logos of ABDA and FDI. The procession featured Toothie, fruits, vegetables, Mr. Toothpaste, and other costumed characters; 50 children from our Sunny Smiles schools accompanied by teachers; dentists walking and driving; and two decorated trucks carrying banners with messages such as “Your Smile Matters” and “Drink Water, Eat Fruits and Vegetables,” along with the 2026 slogan. Eighteen medical students from the University of Health Sciences Medical School participated, along with volunteers, first responders, and the Antigua and Barbuda Red Cross ambulance, one of our coalition partners. Participants wore blue World Oral Health Day T-shirts, while the costumes, music, movement, and color brought oral health and nutrition education to life. A main feature of the parade was also the photo frames taken with people who were lining the streets.  They enjoyed having their pictures taken.  Over 1,000 toothbrushes and toothpaste were given out along with 43 certificates for dental cleanings.  

The parade also included public engagement through chants led by the children:

Leader: When do we brush?
Children: Morning and night!
Leader: Why do we brush?
Children: To keep smiles bright!
All Together: A HAPPY MOUTH… IS A HAPPY LIFE!

Opening remarks reminded the public that the mouth is the gateway to the body and that poor oral health has been linked to heart disease, heart attacks, stroke, diabetes, and even dementia. While the event was festive and joyful, its purpose was deeply educational: to emphasize that oral health is essential to total body health. Through strong community participation, creative messaging, and wide public visibility, this parade will be a memorable demonstration of prevention, partnership, and public engagement in oral health.