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Frequently Asked CARNIVAL Questions

Post Revised 1/14/2024

Planning for any Caribbean carnival can be an overwhelming process, especially if you’ve never attended one. The journey can be even more challenging if you’re interested in playing mas. If I’ve lost you with that previous statement, then please, keep reading! 

Jumping up with different bands, across numerous states and countries has been my jam for decades now. Which means, I’m pretty well equipped to answer your questions. I don’t know everything, but I do know quite a bit. While I appreciate your presence, I highly encourage you to go beyond this platform and gather data from other resources. You can start with the plugs l’ve linked throughout this article. 

Below you will find answers to a hefty list of carnival-related questions that have been asked over the years.  I’ve done my best to provide you with informed responses based on my experiences as a carnival veteran. If you have questions that are not mentioned below, please don’t hesitate to reach out and I’ll be sure to get back to you. Let’s get into it!

COSTS

How much does a carnival trip cost?

  • The cost of  a carnival trip depends on so many factors from flight prices, choice of accommodations, whether you want to be in costume, and how many parties you’d like to attend…amongst other things. You can spend as little as $2500, or as much as $10,000 depending on your priorities and personal standards 

PLANNING AHEAD

How early should I start planning my carnival trip?

  • Before the New Year approaches you should have a solid  idea of where you’d like to travel in the year ahead. For example, I knew going into 2024 that I want to solidify plans for St. Vincent and St. Kitts. Thus far, I’ve financially committed to one of them. 
  • The earlier you start planning, the better. The last thing you want is to be scrambling for things after the masses of people have already taken the quality pickings and reasonably priced items.

How early should I arrive before carnival day?

  • Most people like to arrive at least 3-5 days prior to the actual carnival parade. Many of the popular parties and events will take place during the core (main) weekend. If your pockets and time allow, feel free to arrive earlier, or stay later to attend other staple events and explore the country.

Where should I book lodging?

  • The goal should be to stay as close to the action as possible. If you are unsuccessful, look for locations directly on the outskirts of the main town/parish near the events. Here are some ideal locations in the countries I’ve visited below:
    • Antigua – Buckley’s, Dickenson’s Bay, 
    • Barbados – Anywhere in or near St. Lawrence Gap
    • Grenada – Grand Anse Beach area
    • Guyana – Georgetown
    • Jamaica – New Kingston
    • St. Lucia – Gros Islet
    • Trinidad – Woodbrook, Port of Spain

Are hotels better than private rentals?

  • Not necessarily. If you want to do less work and have access to consistent resources, then hotels may be right for you. Just be sure to inquire about hotel policies prior to booking as there may be limitations to what you can and cannot do on hotel premises. If you’re traveling solo or won’t have access to a rental car, hotels are a good idea.
  • Private rentals allow for a more home-like feel, but this comes with additional responsibility. If you are traveling with a large group, private rentals are a good way to go.

How do I get around in a foreign country?

  • There are numerous options. You can hire a reliable driver prior to your trip, hail a maxi cab as needed, carpool with friends/associates nearby or take public transportation (if available). Depending on your level of comfort, you may also rent a car. Unlike America, most Caribbean islands have left side driving. 

How do I communicate with friends and family while traveling overseas?

  • WhatsApp seems to be the most popular way to communicate nowadays. For this, you will need cellular data or Wi-Fi.
  • Many providers now offer free global roaming. Call your service provider to inquire. Sprint allows free texting and 2G data while traveling internationally. ATT has an international plan at $10 per day.
  • If you have a GSM service provider you can simply purchase a chip and a temporary plan upon arrival and use it to text and make calls.

Do I have to travel with a group?

  • Absolutely not! However, having other people tag along can alleviate some of the fiscal responsibilities. Traveling solo isn’t the easiest in some of the bigger islands, where events may be spread out. 

How do I connect with seasoned carnival-goers?

  • If you frequent Facebook, search for carnival groups. Those groups usually have external chats that you can join using Whatsapp or GroupMe apps. 
  • You can also reach out to me if you’re looking for a group chat for a particular carnival. Chances are, if I’m going, I’m already in a chat. Note that some chats are private and may require a referral. 
  • I have also opened up chats on my instagram platform, and whatsapp as well, So be on the lookout for those. If there’s a large demand, I don’t mind meeting it. 

Are there any other Caribbean carnival bloggers/content creators like yourself?

There sure are! Check out my peeps below. We all love carnival but have very different styles, platforms and approaches to things. Go show them some love and get familiar with their content!

PARTY BASICS

What is a lime?

  • A lime is an unofficial gathering of individuals with a common purpose of enjoying music, drinking, eating and basking in each others company.

What is a fete? A fete is simply an official party. There are different kinds of fetes in the carnival world. Here are some:

  • Wet Fete: A party where guests are sprayed with water throughout the party.
  • Foam Fete: A party where guests dance in large amounts of foam.
  • Powder Fete: A party where guests throw colored powder on one other.
  • A Jouvert Fete: A party where multiple elements like water, powder, paint and sometimes mud are tossed around the venue. Leaving attendees in need of a serious shower thereafter. Jouvert fetes are one of the more popular types. 
  • Breakfast Fete: A party held early in the morning and provides breakfast to guests.
  • Cooler Fete: A party where guests are allowed to bring their own coolers filled with drinks of their choice. Glass bottles are usually not permitted.
  • Boat Ride: A party on water!

What’s the difference between “All Inclusive,” “Food Inclusive” and “Drinks Inclusive?”

  • All Inclusive Fetes: Parties where the cost of admission includes food and beverages. 
  • Drinks Inclusive Fetes: Parties where alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages are included with the purchase of a ticket. If available, food can be purchased. 
  • Food Inclusive Fetes: Parties where guests are able to partake in food without any additional costs. Drinks may be purchased at the bar.

Is there any time to sleep between fetes and carnival events?

  • How much sleep you get depends on the schedule YOU create. If you want the full experience, then sleep may be brief or non-existent. Think power-naps.”
  • If you don’t plan on having a jam packed schedule, then sleeping is definitely possible. It’s all up to you.

How can I purchase fete tickets if I don’t live on the island?

  • In today’s digital world, fete tickets can be purchased electronically. However, depending on the promoter, this may be a challenging task.
  • Many individuals seek the help of friends who live on the island to purchase or reserve hard copy tickets in advance. Hard copy tickets are generally less expensive and may even allow ticket holders to enter the event quicker.
  • Some people seek the help of concierge companies to obtain fete tickets for them. These services come with additional fees, and no guarantees. 

Some ticket sites ask me to select a committee member? Why do I need to know someone? What should I do if I don’t know anyone on the list?

  • This is an ever growing trend. Event organizers have instilled this feature to get a stronger grip on who attends the fete. According to some, the motivation behind this process is to ensure that “troublemakers” do not spoil the event.
  • If you don’t know any committee members, simply select at random and hope for the best.

Can I purchase fete tickets when I arrive?

  • That depends on the fete. I recommend walking with cash if you’re going to take a chance at the door. You should certainly expect to pay more than the original cost of the event.

Imagine 2023

JOUVERT 

What is Jouvert?

  • Jouvert is a lively parade held early in the morning where participants get “dutty” on the road with paint, powder, mudd, chocolate, water and oil in some cases. Participants follow big trucks and dance to music as they get drenched in the elements.

What do I wear to jouvert?

  • You should wear anything that you don’t mind getting dirty. Oftentimes, the band does provide you with some type of wearable item like a t-shirt, bikini, or swim set. You can also wear your own outfit. I highly encourage you to wear a head covering, goggles and even a mask, as the elements can be overwhelming at times. Check out this video from my archives that offers some tips on How to Prepare for Jouvert 

COSTUMES AND MAS BANDS

What is a mas band? Do I have to be a professional dancer or play an instrument?

  • A mas or masquerade band is a group that participates in the parade with the objective of winning, “Band of the Year.” These groups are responsible for providing costumes, drinks and other services for clients while on the road.
  • Each mas band presents a variety of costumes. These costume variations are known as “sections”.
  • Anyone can sign up to join a mas band as long as there is space available. No dance or prior experience necessary.

What is a band launch?

  • A band launch is a fete mixed with a fashion show. It’s the band’s debut of carnival costumes for the season.

How do I join a band?

  • Register at the band launch: Normally, at the end of the band launch participants have the opportunity to register for the section of their choosing if space is available.
  • Register Online: Most mas bands have individual websites which allow you to register online. Many require an up front deposit to secure your costume.
  • Register via Committee Member: If you know a committee member associated with the band you may be able to register under them before general admission opens.

How do I pick a costume?

  • Picking a costume can be difficult if you don’t know what you’re looking for. It is recommended that you consider style, comfort and cost. Think about what is most important to you and go from there.
  • When I choose my costumes I look for any elements that might irritate my skin or interfere with my experience. Since I like to be as free as possible, I rarely select a costume with large feathers and hefty embellishments. For more on costume selection, checkout my “All About Carnival Costumes” video on my YouTube Channel

What’s the difference between, “backline” and “frontline?”

  • Backline costumes are the simpler versions of a design. They are generally less expensive and more “dancer –friendly.”
  • Frontline costumes are more elaborate with a “wow-factor.” Front line packages may come with additional perks and services such as photo shoots, make up sessions or VIP seating.;
  • In recent years, bands have even begun to offer additional sections like mid-line to bridge a gap between the two. 

How much do costumes cost?

  • Costume prices vary by country and band. Costume costs are also determined by your preferences. If you want to participate without all the bells and whistles, you may be able to secure a costume for less than $500. For more elaborate ensembles, you can definitely spend upwards of $2,000. 

What’s included with my costume?

  • When you register for a costume, you’re actually purchasing an entire package. Costume packages vary by organization/mas bands. Generally speaking, packages include the costume, alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks on the road, and wristbands for the parade. There is often a goodie bag filled with snacks, a mug, rags and other fun treats and souvenirs.
  • Your funds contribute to the band fees that help cover expenses such as, the music trucks, DJs, guest artists, security, food and amenities throughout the day. 

Do I have to play mas?

  • You don’t! If you simply want to enjoy the festivities and be a bystander, you totally can! There’s nothing wrong with enjoying the views of carnival without being in a band. It’s a great way to reduce your costs. 

 

Can I wear my own costume?

  • If you’re registering to play with a band, the expectation is that you will wear the costume you selected. You can however, create your own costume to wear as a bystander as mentioned above. 

What are the benefits of being a bystander?

  • Not having to pay for a costume is one of the perks. Additionally, you have the freedom to roam about and experience the vibes of each truck on the road. Pull up a chair and lime as they pass, or chip and walk along the sides as you galavant through the crowds. You’re on your own time. Bring your own drinks, support local vendors when you’re hungry and party until the sun goes down. Being a bystander can be just as much fun as being in the band.

What is Monday wear and where can I get it?

  • Some countries host two days of mas, with one of those days being more casual. In Trinidad, Monday is the more casual day, hence the name “Monday-wear. Some people go all out on their ensemble, while others opt to keep it simple. You can create your own Monday wear or enlist the talents of a seamstress or freelance designer.  These days, some costume designers even launch their own Monday-wear collections. 
  • I highly recommend subscribing to the Trinidad Carnival Diary page on Facebook. It’s a wealth of information, and a great resource for the latest on costume releases.
  • For more on how to choose your carnival Monday-wear look please checkout THIS video on my YouTube channel, and the related blog post HERE. 
  • Below is a list of some well-known outlets for custom Monday-wear designs

PREPARATION

Where can I get my face beat for carnival? There are make-up artists in every country! My top recommendation is to search Instagram for MUAs, look at their portfolio and reach out if their work pleases you. Alternatively, you could message some of the mas bands and costume designers and ask for a list of local make-up artists. Everyone knows someone!

While I’ve never used them personally, Carnival Glam Hub is a very popular organization that sets up shop at numerous carnivals. Check out my go-to list of recommended artists below. Let them know I sent you!

  • Accentuate the Beauty Bar: (Antigua) 
  • JevoisCouleur: (Trinidad) –  jevoiscouleur@gmail.com
  • Kiss and Make-Up: (St. Lucia) – kissandmakeupslu@gmail.com

Where can I go to get carnival boots designed?

Where can I go to listen to the latest Caribbean music?

  • Soundcloud – Follow popular Caribbean DJ’s like Dei Musicale, DJ Private Ryan, Dj Puffy, Dj Jel,  etc.
  • Team Soca – Where Soca Music Lives
  • Spotify – Conduct a search for playlists “Soca 202_”
  • YouTube – Be sure to follow Julian’s Promotions

Where can I go to get fit for carnival and vibe to Caribbean music in the process?

Whew! That was a lot! If you have additional questions to add to this list please don’t hesitate to contact me! Happy carnivaling!