Panyards / Panorama
Judging night for entry to the Panorama semi-finals is the prime opportunity to hear the steelbands at their best as they seek the top prize in the Finals held on Carnival Saturday in the Queen’s Park Savannah. Nightly sessions are frequented by pan lovers to see the composers at work and hear the practice, before the full rehearsals that make you an aficionado. Your senses await! www.pantrinbago.co.tt
Ole Mas'
Also held on Carnival Friday in Port of Spain, this is the nod to the pre-Lenten tradition of Carnival, with Devils, Jumbies, Fire Eaters, Stilt Walkers, all performing before large crowds. The folklore of the nation is on display too with La Diablesse, Papa Bois and many others.
Soca Monarch Fêtes
Beginning on 1st January, the season of fêtes takes all shapes and sizes with several on every subsequent weekend and ramping-up to daily parties in the final two weeks of the Carnival. From casual Cooler Fêtes to highend glamour All-Inclusives (drink, food and live entertainment), the one staple is the amazing time to be found at all. Get the full listing on pages 10–12 and details via www.trinidad carnivaldiary.com
The crowning of the Soca Monarch is the reason the final weekend begins with Fantastic Friday! All the finalists perform their best songs. The Grammy’s don’t have this tempo and stamina. Held at the Hasely Crawford Stadium, be prepared to finish just before sunrise, but by now you’re accustomed to those hours. www.socamonarch.net/
FROM THE TOP:
Blue Devil Photo: Richard Lyder
Dame Lorraines - Fou Fou Yeh led by June Sankar Photo: Maria Nunes