Let’s Play Mas!

As the resident Trinidadian intern, I felt that it was my duty to discuss Carnival. Carnival is a celebration that epitomizes the culture of Trinidad and Tobago while simultaneously becoming a consistent tourist attraction for our beautiful island.

Carnival is an annual event held in Trinidad and Tobago every Monday and Tuesday before Ash Wednesday. Or as we call it: Carnival Monday and Tuesday.

This year it takes place on Monday, February 27th and Tuesday, February 28th.

During Carnival, there are several fétes (parties) and band competitions which lead up to the parades on Carnival Monday and Tuesday. Trinidadians “play mas” in bright, colorful, and extravagant costumes while dancing to soca and celebrating their musical culture. “Playing mas” basically means wining and getting on during the parade on Carnival Monday and Tuesday.

One of the competitions include the Kings and Queens Costume Competition in which the leaders of each band compete for the coveted title. Costumes can weigh from 50-200 lbs!

These are two examples of the dazzling costumes in the Queens portion of the competitions.

Unfortunately I have never attended Carnival and I am so jealous that my dad leaves for Carnival soon and will be in Trinidad and Tobago for two weeks.

Here are some more pictures of the extravagant costumes from the parade of celebration!

Carnival tourists include some celebrities!

Blac Chyna and Amber Rose attended Trinidad and Tobago’s Carnival last year.

Beyoncé performed in 2010’s Carnival.

One of the most hilarious and culturally aware moments during Carnival by a celebrity was Beyoncé Palancin’ during her concert. Palance is an infamous Trinidadian song and dance often played at many Caribbean fétes.