Carnival
originated in Trinidad when slavery was
abolished in 1834. The freed slaves took to the
streets in celebration of their new freedom,
singing and dancing in one big street party.
Over
the years it has evolved into the greatest show
on earth that we know today. It is also
comprised of many different components. All of
these components contribute to the final
crescendo on Carnival Tuesday.
A
vital element of this celebration is "Jour
Vert" Pronounced as "joovay."
Jour Vert marks the beginning of the two-day
street parade. The competition starts at 2:00
a.m. on Carnival Monday and goes to about noon.
(The Galveston Jour Vert celebration will start
on Friday evening) The competition comprises of
two categories – bands, and individuals. Many
of our large Steel Drum bands come out to
entertain their fans. The individual
masqueraders portray a wide variety of
characters depicting a scene or person from
play, movie, or even a political leader. Those
taking part in the competition are all in
costume, and in everything there is humor. The
costumes are portrayed with a comical twist to
bring laughter. The bands in the parade choose a
theme that is depicted on a larger banner. This
banner is displayed in the front by two
masqueraders.
Some
bands still play the traditional "Ole Mas"
of decades ago. Two examples of which are: Blue
Devils and Mud Mas. In the devil bands the
masqueraders would paint any exposed skin with
blue dye, horns on their heads, tails attached
to the costume, and large forks to hold in the
hand. In the mud bands the masqueraders are all
dressed in the same T-shirts, but more
importantly are covered from head to toe in mud.
It is not uncommon to find many of our local and
foreign professionals such as doctors and
lawyers in these "Ole Mas" bands.
Finally,
the judging is over and King and Queen of
"Jour Vert" are chosen. Awards are
also given to the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place
winners in the band category. The preparation is
now on the way for the greatest show on earth of
color, genius, and pageantry – Parade of the
Bands – which starts later that afternoon and
ends at midnight Tuesday.
Carnival
originated in Trinidad when slavery was
abolished in 1834. The freed slaves took to the
streets in celebration of their new freedom,
singing and dancing in one big street party.
Over
the years it has evolved into the greatest show
on earth that we know today. It is also
comprised of many different components. All of
these components contribute to the final
crescendo on Carnival Tuesday.
