Beginners Guide to Carnival in Grenada
Are coming to Carnival in Grenada for the very first time- what a brilliant year to start! We are sure it will not be your last encounter with this captivating, liberating and dynamic festival. Over the years we have gotten questions from our guests here at True Blue Bay Boutique Resort about Carnival in Grenada- how it works and what to expect. That is why we have decided to create this blogpost. This is a basic guide to Carnival in Grenada- all about how you can take part in the festivities. If you want to know more about the essence of Grenada’s Carnival also known as Spicemas check out our past Carnival Blogs:
The tea on Spicemas
In case you have no clue what to expect here is a very brief breakdown: 2 days- 4 action-packed street parties- minimal sleep and maximum alcohol – we suggest you prepare yourself body, mind and soul for this epic experience. This would be an excellent time to start a fitness regime if you have not started yet- you will need to build up your stamina.
When exactly is Grenada’s Carnival?
The official Spicemas scheduled dates for 2019 are Monday, August 12th and Tuesday, August 13th. Spicemas begins at 4 am on Monday with J’ouvert followed by Monday Wear, Traditional Mas and Monday Night Mas which ends around midnight. Tuesday, the second and final day of carnival starts around 11 am with Pretty Mas that lasts until about 6:30 pm.
Your unofficial guide to Carnival in Grenada
The important details about the events
Monday
J’ouvert Morning
Do I have to pay?
Not really, show up, and it sort of all takes care of itself
What do I wear?
Something you don’t intend to wear again (we are serious) as you will be covered in paint and/old car oil.
What time does it start?
4 am
Where does everyone gather?
Kirani James Boulevard, St. George
Ends Around 10 am
Monday Wear and Traditional Mas
Do I have to pay?
Yes- to take part as a masquerader, you must pay to be in a band
How do I join a band?
You will need to register and pay in full to be part of a carnival band – this will get you a costume for Tuesday pretty mas, potentially a costume for Monday Wear, unlimited drinks when playing carnival and potentially a meal.
What to wear?
You may have been provided with Monday costume – usually branded swimwear or a tank top/t-shirt. If you do not have a provided Monday costume, you can opt to wear a fancy swimsuit paired with and the less lavish ornaments from your costume or shorts and a tank top/ crop top/ swimsuit/ bikini top. Men usually wear some swim trunks and go bareback or wear a t-shirt or tank top.
If you are playing traditional mas like Shortknee or Vecco (props to you!) you wear your full traditional mas costume.
What time does it start?
Around 12 noon
Where to gather
Kirani James Boulevard, St.George
Ends around 4 pm
Monday Night Mas
Do I have to pay?
Yes- you must be part of a Monday Night Mas Band to participate
How can I join a band?
Big companies on the island like Carib and Digicel usually have bands, and you can purchase your Monday Night Mas kit at their outlets.
What do I wear?
The Monday Night Mas kit from your band, comfortable pants and some sneakers. These kits often include a t-shirt or tank top, some glowing and sparkling accessories including headgear and a cup or bottle for your drinks. Monday night mas tends to look like a giant street rave!
What time does it start?
8 pm
Where to gather
Grand Anse Post Office, St. George
Ends around midnight
Tuesday
Pretty Mas
Do I have to pay?
Yes, to take part as a masquerader you must be part of a band (the same band you were a part of for Monday wear)
How can I join a band?
You will need to register and pay in full to become part of a band- this will get you a costume, unlimited drinks when playing carnival and potentially a meal.
What do I wear?
Your band costume and sneakers / closed-toe shoes
What time does it start?
Around noon – however, keep in contact with your band to find out their exact start time and location on Kirani James Boulevard.
Where to gather
Kirani James Boulevard, St. George
Ends around 7 pm
Can I enjoy Spice Mas for free/without being part of a band?
Absolutely! We call it spectators mas. You can enjoy the spectacle of carnival and even shake a leg or roll your waistline from the sidelines. Food and drink vendors pop up along the route so you will always be fed and watered. It is fun just to look on and take in the vibe that is Spice Mas. Be warned- you will probably want to be part of the action next year.
This guide applies to Carnival in the parish of St. George where the main carnival celebrations take place. The days and routs are different in the other parishes.
If you are planning to come to Grenada for Spicemas 2020 be sure to reach out to us to find out about our Carnival Special on accommodation at True Blue Bay Boutique Resort
