Discover Trinidad & Tobago Travel Guide 2019 (issue #30)

J’Ouvert
Maria: There’s something indescribable about the
J’Ouvert tradition of covering your entire body in mud and
heading out into the street with a steelband or a rhythm section
at 4am. Everyone should experience it at least once in that
traditional form. It’s truly a ritual of renewal.
Nigel: Mud, oil, and
a pair of throw-away sneakers
are a necessary part of the
ritual. And plenty water. Chipping
to music until sunrise is
not for the weak of heart, but a
necessary elixir to understand
the Carnival.
3Canal J’Ouvert
elLiot francois
Franka & Ardene: Options are
endless, but it depends on the experience you’re
after. If you’re looking for an all-inclusive road party
in the dark with paint, check out Dirty Dozen (a
younger crowd); Cocoa Devils (more mature crown);
Friends for the Road (mixed ages). For something a
little more raw, traditional, dutty, with a mix of live
and DJ music plus rhythm truck — and if you care
to cross the big Savannah stage in all your painted
glory — definitely try 3canal. Walk with cash to
patronise road-side vendors!
Pennie: Definitely,
3canal J’Ouvert is the best — safe
and very creative. The band takes
off from Woodbrook with live
music, a rhythm section, and DJ
music. This band doesn’t venture
into the city, which I love … If
you’re into pan music, Phase II
steelband has a wonderful
J’Ouvert experience with a mature
crowd and mellow vibes while
chipping to pan.
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