Dominica Carnival: Caribbean Extravaganza

Dominica Carnival Highlights
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The Dominica Carnival, or Mas Dominik, displays a captivating blend of music, art, and dance rooted in African and French traditions. The original carnival dates to the 1830s, with religious and cultural significance.

Roseau Dominica — City of Roseau, Dominica

Dominica celebrates its colorful cultural heritage through lively festivities. The carnival preserves the island’s unique identity and rich history. These revels are an interesting fanfare that honors and represents the essence of the island.

Visit Dominica from December to February. Dance to the rhythm of the lapo kabwit and join in on carnival activities on Nature Island. Also known as “The Real Mas,” the Dominica Carnival is a pre-Lenten festival with festive parades. The carnival boasts of events like:

Junior Monarch
Calypso Monarch
Queen Show
Princess Show
Teenage Pageant
Kiddies Carnival

The Opening Parade in January officially starts the 2015. Then, the excitement begins several weeks prior, rising to a fevered pitch before the finale on Feb. 16 & 17.

Key carnival events occur in the capital of Roseau. Meanwhile, villages such as Portsmouth, Marigot, and Grand Bay hold smaller carnivals.

Dominica Carnival Highlights

Calypso – Dozens of musicians begin qualifying rounds in December as they compete for the “Calypso Monarch” title. These occur at the quarter-final and semi-final stages leading up to the grand finale.
Queen Show – This is a popular event in Dominica. It displays the skills and beauty of women. The event ends with the crowning of Miss Dominica.
Jump-up – Two days of costume bands and street dancing called “jump-up” on Feb. 16 & 17.
Kabouwe Toy Truck Parade – This unique event is part of “The Real Mas.” This parade shows small handmade toy trucks known as “kabouwe.”

The toy truck parade participants include students from St. Mary’s Primary School. A father-son club initially suggested the concept as a bonding activity. According to history, the tradition began in Dominica as early as 1910.

Moreover, visitors may opt to arrive no later than Feb. 13. This allows visitors to enjoy the Dominica Carnival weekend activities before the Feb. 16 & 17 finale.

Additionally, Dominica offers a stunning Caribbean sailing destination. Other attractions include diving, hiking, and eco-tours. Although, it’s the rich culture that attracts tourists from all over the world.

One of our most popular yacht charter travel plans is the 7-day sailing vacation from Dominica to Guadeloupe!