Sway examines how Caribbean culture and carnival is celebrated, from Trinidad to Tokyo

By Simona Siad

Tourists love Trinidad

You cannot talk about carnivals without mentioning the world-renowned Trinidad and Tobago Carnival, an event celebrated in February on the two days before Ash Wednesday. A vibrant mix of colour, music and creativity, Trinidad’s carnival has spawned similar celebrations around the world. However, few can rival the stunning spectacle of this festival.

With its massive masquerade bands, spectacular costumes, music and unparalleled stamina for partying, Trinidad and Tobago Carnival is a huge draw for tourists. Every year, hungry for the sweet sounds of calypso and soca, thousands of people descend upon the islands for over-the-top parades, food, colourful costumes, stick-fighting and limbo competitions. This famous carnival is easily the most significant event on the islands’ cultural and tourism calendar, with numerous cultural events leading up to the street parades on Carnival Monday and Tuesday.

It is said that if Trinidadians are not celebrating carnival then they are preparing for it, while reminiscing about the past year’s event. Oh, and did we forget to mention the sheer beauty of the lush countryside and people? Trinidad and Tobago Carnival is a must-stop for anyone wanting to experience an authentic Caribbean carnival.

Sway recognizes that it did not, and could not, cover all of the amazing carnivals that exist in the Caribbean and around the world. Please comment below and tell us which global carnival is your favourite and why.