In April 2020, the Government of Trinidad & Tobago implemented the first of it's Covid response lockdowns. Initially meant for just two weeks in April, restrictions were extended into September.
These masqueraders get in character as they play 'Roaring Lion' with their Lion mask headpieces.
Wearing a 'Masque' or a headpiece derived from a mask has long been a part of Trinidad & Tobago Carnival culture.
In July, the Government announced mandatory wearing of masks. Police began enforcing these draconian new laws by ticketing persons not wearing masks, even whilst driving in their own cars. But before Trinidadians were ordered to wear masks, to wear masks has been a tradition.
Masked up, two Masqueraders portraying the 'Wawargira' and 'Dia De Los Muertos' festivals, as part of their Mas Band's presentation.
Mas, derived from 'Masquerade' and Mas bands are 'groups' or 'troupes'.
The word mas refers to the costume aspect, to 'play mas' means to put on the costume, be part of the Mas band's theme portrayal. In earlier days all bands had live music, mostly percussion, and it's from these origins Soca music was born. Today almost all bands have Soca sound trucks with DJs. Some bands do still include live music during the day, but being part of 'the band' just means you're on the route, with your 'troupe' in costume.
Playing 'Odysseus' a masqueraders sports a Gladiator helmet and mask.
The Origins of Carnival are associated with the decadent feasts and revelry held before the fasting of lent. The 'Mas' tradition started in the late 18th century. French plantation owners organized masquerade balls before enduring the fasting of Lent. The 18th century slaves could not take part in this Carnival, and so they formed their own, parallel celebration, called Canboulay, which is now a precursor to Carnival.
A Venezuelan masquerader proudly displays her 'colours' 'on D' road' in Trinidad Carnival.
Carnival begins in the early hours of Jouvert, creole for 'break of day/opening day'. Revellers take to the streets in a festival of music, drink, dance, mud and paint. Often portraying traditional characters such as the 'Jab Jab'.
A Jouvert Masquerader is masked up as she plays 'Jab Jab'
A masquerader strikes a stunning pose for admirers in her golden mask.
Trinidad Carnival is vibes. Carnival vibes is love. Carnival runs non stop through two days of 'no sleep' festivities. If you only ever experience one carnival in your life, then let that carnival be Trinidad Carnival.
A Trinidadian masquerader Portraying the Mexican festival of 'dia de los Muertos' adorning a skeleton mask. Such is the culturally diverse nature of Trinidad Carnival Mas.