Describing carnival to a carnival virgin

We have probably all done it at one point or another as carnival veterans. Someone has asked about carnival or somehow it comes up and you have to casually give a description that accurately depicts the epic experience that is carnival. You have to describe the undescribable!

We all do it in different ways.

Male coworker: “Oh, you going on leave again next week for carnival. One day I should try it out enuh…. What’s it like?”

LIttle do they know how prepared I am to answer this question.

Hit em with the parallel universe.

“You know, Carnival is like a parallel universe where:”

1. You can be in a party with 2000 people, and ALL of them are smiling and happy.
2. If you step on someone’s toe they are more likely to give u a hug than get mad at you.
3. You dont have to go through any elaborate ritual to tek a wine. You just go tek a wine.
4. Women are free from all the hangups of the normal universe. At carnival women will just come up to YOU and tek a wine.
5. When the music hit you just right in the fete or on the road a literal euphoria can come over you. It’s like being on drugs without the drugs (except all the alcohol).
6. Even if you are not in shape, carnival is inclusive. Bring whatever body you have and you will be loved.
7. If you bring your six pack, you will also be appreciated.
8. It’s what you make it . It can be a cultural exploration if you want. It can be innocent partying if you want. It can be absolute debauchery if you want. It’s all up to you!
9. There is more than first meets the eye. Carnival is multifaceted. With many aspects deeply rooted in the rich history of Trinidad and the Caribbean. It’s more than just fetting if you want it to be.
10. It’s also a deeply personal experience. It’s a time that you can use to reconnect with yourself. To allow yourself to feel more vibrant and alive.

At this point I usually get into the description of some of my favourite carnival moments.

TELL THEM HOW YOU FELT…

1. Exiting the airport at piarco and the feeling of FINALLY starting your carnival experience.
2. Seeing the sun rise over insomnia overlooking the bay
3. Entering the bamboo cathedral back when ambush started there.
4. partying at sunset at nylon pool in the Caribbean sea at the first candy coated cruise
5. The cool 4am breeze as dirty dozen jouvert started the road
6. Chipping down the road singing in tune with THOUSANDS of like minded masqueraders. All filled with joy, happiness, appreciation of our shared culture and love of this amazing thing called carnival. (I legit shed a tear thinking of the euphoria of this annual moment).
7. Every moment spent with my crew.
8. The absolute determination to do it all again as soon as possible, but next time…. do it better.

Sometimes, words are not enough.

Take a look at some of my favourite sights and sounds.