Carnival is looming in the Eastern Caribbean and revelers are preparing to hit the streets and fetes, dancing to the latest soca songs of the season. Carriacou, the Sister-Isle of Grenada and home of the Jab Jab is one such island preparing for its carnival – KAYAK MAS, which happens concurrently with Trinidad and Tobago’s carnival. By now, carnival lovers are deciding which fetes or events are worth it. Whether you are headed down South for Trinidad and Tobago Carnival or to Carriacou for Kayak Mas in March, there are some essentials you must have with you. In no particular order here are 10 must-haves for Kayak Mas or any Carnival season.
Comfortable shoes
Parading through the streets and moving to the syncopated rhythms is fun when in comfortable attire, especially comfy shoes! Wear comfortable shoes that can withstand the mud, paint, water, old oil [if you are going to play Jab Jab] and more importantly, for the long hours of walking, dancing and standing.
Country Flag or Scarf
A scarf or flag that signifies your country of residence is a must. You can wave it or in the case of the scarf, use it to wipe away the sweat after all the dancing. Represent your country even if, you are a local.
Money
No funds, no Mas. Money is a must have! If you want to have a good time, you need money for food, drinks and to purchase tickets for every riveting fete you want to attend.
Friends
As Machel, Skinny Fabulous and Bunji Garlin said, “When we roll we doh roll alone, anyway that wi go you fi know we moving wid wi famalaylaylay,” and so should you. Good friends are a must during the carnival season. Whether they help build a vibe, assist in taking your photos or ensure your safety, friends add to the fun.
Sun-screen
Sunscreen? Yes! Although sun-kissed skin is cute, sunburns are not. It is easy to forget the heat during the fun. So for every street parade [jouvert and road march] or daylight fete, ensure you have your bottle of sunscreen to protect you from the blazing sun.
Rum
If there’s one thing synonymous with Kayak Mas, it is rum! Whether you are a light or heavy drinker, a glass of any rum of your choice can add to the fun. Kayak Mas, in particular, is no fun without a glass of Grenada’s finest, Clarke’s Court or Rivers Rum. However, remember to drink responsibly, and say no to drinking and driving.
Fix it Spray
Ladies let’s keep the make-up intact! Your preferred choice of fix it spray is a must if you decide to wear make – up to both night and daylight fetes.
Transportation
There is no fun in not being able to get to and from any carnival fete. If you don’t drive, ensure you secure your ride. Whether it’s with a friend or chartered service, don’t get stranded on the Sister-Isle, Carriacou.
Shorts
This may seem like a given, but comfortable, yet trendy shorts are needed for both men and women. Bedazzled, tie-dye, loose, tight, whichever style you prefer; it is that one time of the year where you get to wear any shorts you fancy while you move your body to the rhythmic sounds of our Caribbean music.
Good Meals
With all that dancing and parading, you must maintain good energy levels. Good meals before, during and after each fete is a must. For Kayak Mas, a warm bowl of green or dry peas soup or the country’s national dish, oil down can do the trick. Remember, Kayak Mas is the precursor to the Tri-Island State’s SpiceMas in August, so eat well and have fun!
Kayak Mas 2019 festivities will kick off on February 28 to March 5 under the theme: ‘Crave the Music, Explore Traditions, Our Mas, Kayak Mas.’
