Carnival color

Tuesday of Carnival is the big day - it is a parade of color, music and dancing. Participating in the day is called 'playing mas'. For weeks before Carnival the 'mas camps' advertise what costumes they will be wearing and people then pay to join them. Your fee covers your costume and your refreshments, security & entertainment. The costumes can be quite expensive. There is a smaller de-tuned parade on Monday but Tuesday is quite the day.
There are several judging stations along the route and that's when the groups really show their colors & enthusiasm - trying to win the competition which is based on a number of criteria. Each band will have a sound truck to provide them music to dance to and to entertain them and the crowds along the streets.

Some of the costumes are quite extravagant (i.e. heavy, hot). I cant believe people wear them for 8 hours in 35 degree weather. And then to no one's surprise there are the less confining...... much cooler outfits but that are still colorful. There is a bit of beer consumed by spectators and participants alike.

These would be the same Canadians who were all 'chocolated up' during J'Ouvert - they are big fans of Carnival.

There is also spectator participation.....

I have no idea how to describe this.....so I wont.

I cant imagine hauling this for 8 km around the city.

Or this....

Or this!

But it does make for a great parade.

The following day, Ash Wednesday is more commonly referred to as Cooldown here when many who 'play mas' take the day to relax. Neither Monday or Tuesday are official holidays but most businesses shutdown those days and absenteeism is very high on the Wednesday as well. It makes for a very long weekend for some.

Carnival season is quite an undertaking here.

B.