Carnival

Before you leave this earth, you NEED to experience Carnival in Trinidad. Whereas Carnaval in Brazil is more of a show, people from all over the world gather in Trinidad to participate in the revelry of Carnival.

It annually takes place the Monday and Tuesday prior to Ash Wednesday; however, the partying can start almost 2 months prior. Carnival Monday and Tuesday are holidays and the whole island virtually shuts down to celebrate.

Participants can buy a costume and participate or "jump up" in a band. They dress up as masqueraders and play "mas" for 2 days. Many bands are all-inlcusive which included 2 meals each day, snacks, and all the water and liquor you can tolerate (before passing out on a truck or in a corner somewhere).

People "wine" and dance and march in the streets and on day 2, each band is judged. People who don't participate find a comfortable spot to watch the parade go by and to listen to the new music for the year.

Parties around Carnival time are for all ages, for children and all the way up to the Lion's Club. Some are during breakfast hours, in the middle of the day or into the evening. These "fetes" are often all-inclusive so you can get some food and an open bar for as long as supplies lasts.

Carnival can be an expensive experince, but it's worth it. Saving prior to your arrival will ensure a good time. Tickets for parties can sell out fast. Bands selling costumes can open up anywhere from August-December of the year prior to and can sell out of costumes in a month! So, those interested in playing mas, have to plan accordingly (which means extremely early!)

There is so much more to discuss about Carnival and how to navigate and plan for it, where to stay and what to do, but I'm starting to get carpal tunnel. Be sure to do your research and you'll have a great time...I promise.