When it comes to vibrant culture, electrifying energy, and immersive celebrations, Trinidad Carnival stands at the top of the list. Known as the “Greatest Show on Earth,” it’s an experience that draws people from all corners of the globe to revel in the intoxicating mix of Soca music, incredible costumes, and sheer joy. This year, I decided to not only dive into the Carnival madness but also extend my trip by unwinding in Tobago for a few days of beach relaxation. Here’s a breakdown of my unforgettable Carnival holiday, from wild Jouvert with MAD Band and playing Mas with Resonate Band, to soaking in the sun on Pigeon Point and Store Bay beaches in Tobago.
Jouvert Madness with MAD Band
Carnival in Trinidad is more than just a parade; it’s a total sensory experience. My Carnival journey started at the break of dawn with Jouvert, a wild and liberating part of the celebration that begins before sunrise on Carnival Monday. I chose to play Jouvert with MAD Band, a crew known for their energetic vibes and vibrant colors.
As tradition goes, Jouvert revelers cover themselves in mud, paint, and powder, dancing through the streets in pure freedom. The music pulsated through the air as we paraded through Port of Spain, splashing paint, laughing, and letting go of all inhibitions. It’s an event that captures the soul of Trinidad Carnival—raw, fun, and completely unforgettable. The sense of community was amazing, with strangers becoming fast friends in a kaleidoscope of colors and Soca rhythms.
Playing Mas with Resonate Band
After the morning’s Jouvert chaos, I switched gears for the main event: playing Mas on Carnival Tuesday with Resonate Band. The costumes in Mas are nothing short of extraordinary, and Resonate Band’s theme this year was a jaw-dropping display of Caribbean culture with elaborate feathered costumes, radiant colors, and intricate designs. I felt like royalty walking through the streets, adorned in a dazzling outfit, as Soca beats filled the air.
The parade through Port of Spain was a feast for the senses. Every turn revealed a new burst of color, energy, and life. The experience peaked when we crossed the stage at the Queen’s Park Savannah, the ultimate moment for any Masquerader. The euphoria of the crowd, the music, and the collective joy of everyone around made it an experience unlike any other.
Local Food: A Taste of Trinidad
Carnival wouldn’t be complete without indulging in Trinidad’s rich and flavorful food. I fueled my days of dancing with some of the island’s most iconic dishes. Doubles—a popular street food snack made of fried dough filled with spiced chickpeas and topped with tangy tamarind sauce—became my go-to breakfast during the celebrations. For lunch, I couldn’t resist the legendary bake and shark at Maracas Beach, a crispy fried shark sandwich stuffed in soft bake bread and slathered with a variety of toppings and sauces.
Post-Carnival cravings led me to a classic roti filled with curried chicken, potatoes, and pumpkin, while pelau, a flavorful rice dish cooked with pigeon peas, coconut milk, and meat, provided the perfect meal to end an action-packed day. And of course, no trip to Trinidad is complete without a refreshing coconut water or a bottle of icy-cold Carib beer.
Road March 2024: Soca Magic
The soundtrack to Trinidad Carnival is undeniably Soca music, and the highlight of every Carnival season is the Road March competition. This year’s winner, the song that dominated the streets during the parade, was none other than Machel Montano’s “Savannah Vibes”. This upbeat and infectious anthem had the whole island dancing, and the moment it blasted through the speakers as we crossed the stage was surreal. Everyone sang along, hands in the air, fully immersed in the Carnival spirit.
Chilling Out in Tobago: Pigeon Point & Store Bay Beaches
After two days of non-stop action, I was ready to unwind, and there’s no better place for that than Tobago. Just a short flight from Trinidad, Tobago is a serene island paradise, offering a more laid-back vibe. I stayed for three nights to decompress, and it was the perfect way to balance the Carnival energy with some well-deserved relaxation.
I spent my days on two of Tobago’s most famous beaches: Pigeon Point and Store Bay.
Pigeon Point, known for its iconic thatched-roof jetty, is a tranquil haven with soft white sand, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and endless sunshine. I spent hours lounging under the shade of palm trees, taking refreshing dips in the warm sea, and snorkeling among the colorful marine life.
Just a few minutes away, Store Bay is another beautiful beach that offers local flair. Here, I enjoyed more incredible Trinidadian food at the beach stalls, especially crab and dumplings, a dish Tobago is famous for. The atmosphere at Store Bay is more lively, with families, tourists, and locals all enjoying the gentle waves and vibrant energy of the beach.
Conclusion: A Carnival to Remember, A Tobago Retreat to Treasure
Trinidad Carnival 2024 was an explosion of excitement, from the wild Jouvert celebrations with MAD Band to the majestic beauty of Mas with Resonate. The music, the costumes, and the food all created an experience that I’ll never forget. And winding down in Tobago was the perfect contrast—soaking in the beauty of Pigeon Point and Store Bay was just what I needed after the Carnival frenzy.
If you’re thinking of attending Trinidad Carnival, I highly recommend extending your trip to Tobago for some post-Carnival relaxation. It’s the perfect combination of high-energy fun and laid-back island bliss, giving you the best of both worlds in one unforgettable holiday.