Jamaica News: It’s Jamaican Carnival time again.
Everybody Jump, jump, jump. Now wave, wave, after that jump, and wave, and then jump again… wait, what happened, why you stop? We are only halfway through the first song …don’t tell me you’re tired already. #yourenotready 🙂
Carnival is definitely not for the lazy or the unprepared. It’s a dance marathon with an obstacle course of wardrobe malfunctions, hangovers, burning sun rays, and the occasional unwanted attention, but for soca fans, it’s the event of the year and worth the effort.
Can’t make it to Trinidad or Brazil to fete? No worries. Jamaica’ Carnival season is continuing to grow and is reported to now have over 5000 fun-loving Masqueraders on the road in 2019 attracting over 100,000 visitors to the island to celebrate music and life with a uniquely Jamaican energy. Unlike other carnivals, in Jamaica, you will hear a lot of reggae and dancehall as well as calypso and of course soca. The main event occurs in Kingston, Ocho Rios and within a few resorts in Montego Bay.
Want to be a Masquerader and “Playing Mas” this year?
Here are 5 things you need to know to have the best Jamaican Carnival experience ever. I participated in my first Carnival in 2014, and this is what I learned.
1. Wear comfortable shoes. The journey is far and the day is long. the wrong shoes can make or break your day. Now, I know you may be tempted to adorn the super sexy boots that are now in style, but a word to the wise sneakers, not slippers are still your best bet.
2. Sunblock is a must. Often us darker complexion folks believe sunblock is not necessary but don’t be fooled you can and will damage your skin unless you wear some form of protection in the form of sunblock, a hat or umbrella. The latter two may cramp your fashion style so just rub on some protection and forget about it. Your skin will thank you later. Sunblock is sold in most pharmacies and supermarkets across the island and usually cost about $1000jmd per bottle. Buy a bottle and share it with your squad. Also, don’t forget your sunglasses.
3. Pick your Carnival Band wisely. Currently, there are four major bands to choose from Bacchanal Jamaica, (who are celebrating their 20th anniversary this year) Xodus Carnival, Xaymaca Internation, and Jamaica Carnival. My suggestion is to do your homework. Read the reviews and comments from fellow masqueraders and pay special attention to details about communication or lack thereof, costume pick-up, costume design quality (bad costumes can leave you with cuts and bruises) and services available on the road. Will there be enough drinks, water, and is the foodservice well organized?
Carnival is super fun but it’s not cheap so make sure you spend your money wisely. Backline costumes can run you $300-$400usd, while Frontline costumes can set you back about $600-$1000usd all depending on the band you choose.
4. Get in Soca Shape. To fully enjoy your Carnival journey you will need to have a certain level of physical fitness. Learn all the new songs and give yourself time to get in shape before the big day. Attend mas camp warm-up parties to get ready for the wine.
Save some of your energy for the walk back to your car or your transportation center when the event is over. No one will be there to carry you and the walk back can be a long one. Pace yourself.
5. Stay hydrated. The importance of water is so critical especially if you are consuming alcohol. Many bands will provide water but make sure you walk with your water bottle just in case.
Bonus suggestions:
6. Watch for falling feathers. One of the biggest issues I had was the loss of my feathers and frequent costume malfunctions. Bring big pins. The baby diaper pins are the best. Also, be prepared to get hit in the face with a few feathers from your fellow masqueraders. Try not to get too annoyed because interactions with feathers are hard to avoid in bigger crowds.
7. Be alert. Pick-pocketers are everywhere. Pack light and if possible wear a good fanny pack or better yet, leave your expensive phones, and credit cards at home. Take your costume and Instagram pictures before you leave the house and use the banger phone just for the day. Nothing will ruin your day faster than losing your belonging to thieves. Most of the Carnival Bands are all-inclusive so you won’t need cash on hand for the most part.
The 2020 Jamaican Carnival season jumps off in early November and steps into high gear in February featuring 8 weeks of fun-filled, exhilarating events including breakfast parties, soca cruises, weekly mas camps, beach J’ouvert, numerous parties, and cooler fetes all leading up to the grand finale Road March on Carnival Day April 19, 2020. The official 2020 fete list will be released in February 2020, so stay tuned to Mckoysnew.com for more information.
Play Mas, Enjoy, Repeat
By: Maliaka Bryce
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