Carnival in St. Thomas is a beautiful manifestation of Black joy.
The cultural tradition, which takes place all over the Caribbean (and in various cities throughout the U.S. and Canada) from February through August each year, is a thrilling and joyous experience. In St. Thomas, Carnival takes place in the last week of April, but it is also a monthlong celebration —with historic African roots — that dates back to 1912.
Imagine Black people singing and dancing together — “wining” their waists up — without a single care in the world. It is liberating, especially for a novice to the festivities. Everyone, especially those of the African diaspora, should experience Carnival at least once.
My first carnival experience was one that I will always remember, but there were certainly things I did forget during my adventure. For those attending Carnival for the first time, here are some tips you should know ahead of your journey. Thank me later.
Familiarize yourself with the carnival lingo. At Carnival, you will attend fêtes (parties), play mas (join a band, dress in costume, and participate in the carnival parade), jump (dance in the streets) on deh road (the carnival route), and wake up at “can’t see” in the morning for J’ouvert (the official carnival opening festival taking place in the wee hours of the morning). If you don’t know what any of these terms mean, then you’ll be out of luck. So here’s a cheat sheet: check out this blog for more Carnival-specific terms.
If you are playing mas, try on your costume before the carnival. Wardrobe malfunctions absolutely do happen. Do your part to prevent a malfunction on the big day — try on your costume when you pick it up. This might seem like a no-brainer, but don’t assume a “medium” bikini bottom will fit the same universally.
Drink water. Mind your business. These words, quite wisely sung by soca singer Patrice…
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