J ’ ouvert , where the tradition of mud or chocolate ‘ mas ’ is almost ritualistic in its celebration of the darker elements of the island ’ s folklore and history . Bathed in chocolate , mud , oil and paint , bands of revellers depict devils , demons , monsters and imps . Choose your medium of expression ; J ’ ouvert is a time for the loosening of inhibitions .
Jab Molassie portrayed by Ricardo Felicien
By 9:00 am the last of the J ’ ouvert merrymakers head home and it ’ s time for the “ pretty mas ” street parade . Revellers carefully don their feathered headpieces , beaded and blinged out costumes and literally hit the road – stamping , jumping , waving , chipping and dancing to soca music blaring from huge trucks that guide the throng of party-goers towards the main stage at the Queen ’ s Park Savannah .
Although many revellers seem to conserve their energies and the best of their costumes for Carnival Tuesday ’ s judging , true Carnival babies party hard no matter what day it is . On Tuesday , many of the revellers are geared up for part two and by 8:00 am the Parade of Bands is on the move through the streets . For all Carnival lovers , this is the last day to own the streets and prance and dance with everything they ’ ve got . While the largest Carnival Parade of Bands takes place in the capital city of Port of Spain , in towns and villages across the country there are smaller displays and nothing can dampen the intense energy that holds the country captive for many hours after nightfall .
Although much of Carnival merriment is gruelling fun and searing heat , locals and tourists can ’ t help but feel rejuvenated . This is the true charm of Trinidad Carnival , a life-affirming , soul-satisfying experience that keeps them coming back year after year .
Bookman protrayed by Sylvan Joseph
Che Britto
Read more about Trinidad Carnival here bit . ly / 2i1f2Tj
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Moko Jumbie portrayed by Glenn De Souza
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