I have been chasing carnival for a long time. From my first taste of it on the road in Jamaica in the 1990s, to my real addiction starting in 2005 with my first Trinidad carnival, it has been a big part of my life.
Thinking back, that addiction helped keep me fitter and stronger than I would ever have been otherwise and helped forge lifelong friendships I will forever cherish.
It also had its drawbacks of course. SOOOO much money spent instead of invested. Sometimes less focus on work and home and so much time and energy devoted to something that is in large part, an indulgence.
Over the last few years, as I rise up through my 50s, I have noticed the burning fire of that addiction waning and it begs the question. Should I quit this carnival chasing life?
Why I Sat Out Trinidad Carnival 2026
In 2025 I was a little dismayed because some of the perceived changes that made my experience different, primarily a much later start times for the road vibes. In my heyday on carnival Tuesday we were out on the road from 9 in the morning and the vibes started up fine from then! Now, the band meets later, we cross the stage, walk straight to lunch which lasts 3 hours, then the action doesn’t really start on the road till about 4pm.
Because of that and the spiralling costs of attending, I chose to follow my spirit and sit out Trinidad 2026.
I think some of the issue is I want things to go the way they USED to be (mind bending euphoria and vibes) but I think its important to learn to accept the changes and work with them.
Carnival Monday and Tuesday the FOMO had a grip on me but overall I think it was the right decision for me. I really enjoy Trinidad but its no longer worth 5000usd for ME. After 20 years I can say I got my moneys worth from Trinidad.
What’s Next For Me?
Will I return to Trinidad. Definitely yes, but in a different way. Next year, I’ll be coming for a shorter trip, likely on Saturday till Ash Wednesday. I will stay by a friend to save a LOT on hotel and have the time of my life. This experience has also given me the push needed to try something new. I’ll be trying St Lucia carnival for the first time in 2026 and jumping with XUVO carnival band.
I learned LOOOONGGG ago, to never say never to carnival. Change how you do it to fit your changing needs and remember, it may literally be your last.
