All About Caribbean Carnival

When you think of the Caribbean Carnival, you may picture lively parades of people dressed in feathered, jeweled, and colorful costumes. This is the general idea of the global festival for most people who are less familiar with it. 

In reality, Carnival is so much more! Continue reading to learn about this remarkable and thrilling event celebrated all over the world. 

What is Carnival? 

Carnival is a worldwide holiday that has been celebrated for hundreds of years. The first people to partake in Carnival were the ancient Egyptians, who welcomed in the warm spring after a harsh winter. At the time, Carnival was a pagan festival. However, when Alexander the Great took over Egypt, he kept the festival and intertwined it with Christian values. 

The modern-day Carnival typically comes before the Christian Lenten season. During this time, Christians who observe Lent sacrifice something important to them or fast for 40 days. For example, some people refrain from chocolate, alcohol, or their favorite soda for the 40 days leading up to Easter. This is also a time for prayer and reflection. The height of the Carnival season precedes the Lenten period, offering much of what is forbidden during the Lent weeks. 

When, Where, and How is the Caribbean Carnival Celebrated? 

Carnival is celebrated all over the globe in over 50 countries. In the Caribbean region, most islands have a distinct way of recognizing the holiday. Most Caribbean Carnivals include parades, food, and dancing. However, each destination has unique traditions as well as shared activities. 

When is Carnival? 

The Caribbean Carnival is celebrated throughout the year, except for around important holidays like Easter and Christmas. Traditionally, Carnival spans from January to March. But some islands celebrate later in the year, in July and August. 

The Top Carnival Celebrations in the Caribbean 

Some of the largest and most exciting Carnival celebrations happen on the tropical islands of the Caribbean. Below you will discover the top three Caribbean nations with the most festive events for the Carnival season. 

Carnival Trinidad 

Trinidad begins its long celebration of Carnival with a kick-off on the day after Christmas, December 26th. For over two months, Trinidadians and visiting tourists enjoy shows, competitions, parties, and so much more! 

In early February, the festivities build speed. Visit Trinidad in 2023 from February 13th through 22nd to witness one of the biggest and wildest of all Carnival celebrations, including dancing, music, parades, vibrant costumes, and delicious food! 

Saint Lucia Carnival 

Saint Lucia is a charming Caribbean Island that is often on the quieter side, being the perfect spot for people to kick up their feet and relax. But the atmosphere makes a 180-degree turn for the Carnival season! 

Various events are held during the first 20 days of July, like boat rides, parties, and thrilling shows. People from neighboring islands, including Barbados, Trinidad, and Grenada, visit the quaint island to perform and partake in the summer Carnival festivities. 

Carnival Antigua 

Antigua's Carnival is at its height by August 1st. However, there are many celebrations leading up to the more significant events. The start of august welcomes in the exciting parade weekend filled with upbeat island music, traditional dances, and incredible hand-made costumes. 

The thrown-together iron bands that join the colorful and lively parades make Antigua's Carnival extra unique. Islanders gather whatever metal objects they can find, including car rims and other junk. With their make-shift instruments, the locals drum together, producing music from ordinary things. It's a sight you must see! 

CITED: Nationalgeographic.co.uk, Countryliving.com, Caribbeanevents.com