The Caribbean carnival is an annual celebration of Caribbean culture held in many Caribbean countries and territories, and even beyond the region. It developed from a Christian festive season that occurs immediately before Lent. The celebration was originally brought to the Caribbean by European slave traders; after the emancipation of slaves, the Caribbean carnival transformed into what it is today under the influence of African and Caribbean Creole cultures.
Immigrants from the Caribbean brought their traditions to Europe and North America, and today, Caribbean-style carnivals are held in Canada, the United States, France, Germany, the Netherlands, the United Kingdom, etc.; in other words, practically in any country that has a Caribbean community. Unlike pre-Lenten Carnivals that take place in February or May, Caribbean carnivals are usually held in summer. For example, the Baltimore Washington One Carnival in Baltimore, Maryland normally takes place on the first or second weekend of July.
The Baltimore Washington One Carnival is an annual festival that sees two cities (Baltimore, Maryland and Washington, D.C.) come together to embrace and celebrate the vibrant culture of the Caribbean. Founded more than four decades ago, the event is jointly organized by the Caribbean American Carnival Association of Baltimore (CACAB) and the DC Caribbean Carnival, Inc. (DCCC). It is supported by the Baltimore Office of Promotion & The Arts and the Mayor of Baltimore City.
The Baltimore Washington One Carnival is held in Druid Hill Park in northwest Baltimore, Maryland, drawing more than 35,000 locals and visitors. The festival kicks off on Friday with a J’ouvert celebration and continues on Saturday with a spectacular Caribbean parade featuring mas bands that makes its way through the streets of Baltimore’s Park Heights community, ending up at Druid Hill Park.
All participants wear colorful costumes and dance to the energetic tunes of reggae, soca, and calypso music. Only registered and authorized bands are allowed to participate in the parade; those who want to join the procession need to contact one of band leaders in advance. The parade is a competition for the mas bands; at the end, they are all judged on their creativity, costume design, performance, and energy.
The parade is followed by a Caribbean festival held over two days, on Saturday and Sunday. It is filled with live music, family-friendly stage entertainment, and delicious authentic Caribbean food. The festival is a perfect place to embrace traditional Caribbean dance, music and cuisine, appreciate colorful costumes and incredible arts and crafts, and have fun with your friends and family. While the parade is free for spectators, the Caribbean festival has an admission fee.
Photo: baltimorecarnival.org
