Anybody who has ever been there will tell you that Trinidad’s carnival is the greatest show on earth! The Trinidad and Tobago Carnival is an annual event that is held on the streets of Port of Spain in Trinidad. The Carnival is celebrated on the Monday and Tuesday before Ash Wednesday but the celebrations and “fetes” begin way way before then.
DESCRIBING THE TRINIDAD CARNIVAL
The Carnival can be described in many words: fantastic, outrageous and unbelievable are some of the words that have been used to describe this one-of-a-kind event. You will find colorful costumes, limbo competitions, stickwalkers and plenty of wild and crazy partygoers.
ACTIVITIES AROUND THE TRINIDAD CARNIVAL
Carnival is the most important event in Trinidad in terms of tourism and activities. That is why there are countless cultural events and celebrations that take place before the main Carnival on Monday and Tuesday. Most Trinis will tell you that they are not celebrating the Carnival but that they are preparing for it!
MUSIC AT THE TRINIDAD CARNIVAL
Music is the most important aspect of this Caribbean Celebration, with Calypso and Soca being the two most popular types of music played during the celebrations. Steelpans also play a major role in the Carnival since steelpans are an important part of Trinidad’s musical culture. There are many special events and celebrations that are focused around steepens and steelbands during the Carnival.
Visitor Tips for the Trinidad Carnival
If you are planning to attend the Carnival, be prepared for pushing and shoving. That’s why it is recommended to only bring the strict minimum. So, leave your cameras, wallet and rings at your hotel room. J’Ouvert is a great occasion for partying but it is also a time when many pickpockets come out. On Carnival Monday, all the major bands show off their latest costumes in the afternoon. It is a beautiful scene and one of the must-see activities to do during your visit to Trinidad. However, Mardi gras is the best time to view the complete parade with the stunning costumes of the various bands. Keep in mind that accommodation prices in Port of Spain will be much higher than any other time of the year
Where does the Parade Take Place?
The parade takes place everywhere throughout Port of Spain but every band, with their various costumes must pass by judges in order to be judged so that a band can be crowned champion. The prize for the best band is awarded on the Savanah.
Activities After the Carnival
The Carnival festivities finish on Ashe Wednesday, which occurs after Mardi Gras. This is usually when many large beach parties playing Calypso and Soca occur. The following Monday is when the Champs Concert takes place. This is where the winning band to shows off their costumes one last time in the Savannah of Port of Spain.
