Date: March/April 2024
Budget: about $1000 for the road march and J’óuvert
Stay: Rocksteady, ROK Hotel Kingston, Pegasus
I absolutely adore Caribbean carnivals, and I’ve had the incredible experience of dancing through the vibrant streets of the Caribbean. But let me tell you, my first attempt at planning to join a road march left me utterly bewildered.
Now, after feasting my eyes on those jaw-dropping costumes for Jamaica’s Carnival 2024, I’m bursting with excitement for next year’s festivities!
In this personal and all-encompassing guide, we’re going to hold your hand and take you on a journey through everything you need to know to prepare for the adventure of a lifetime at Jamaica’s Carnival 2024 in Kingston.
Get ready to dive into the heart of this electrifying celebration!
Plan your TripCarnival in Jamaica
1. Budget and start saving
Carnival is expensive. But it’s totally worth it, and if you get Early Bird Tickets to the parties, you’ll be able to save some $$$.
Here is a rough overview of the costs you should expect:
– Costume: around $550
– Backpack “The Feathers” (optional): $200-$300
– J’ouvert: $175
– Boat Party: $170
– Tailgate Ja: $200 per car
– General Entry for soca parties: about $40
2. Know the dates and plan accordingly
When planning to jump with one of Kingston’s carnival bands, it is important to know the most important events and dates. Even if you are not in Jamaica for the road march, you still might get lucky to attend one of the major pre-carnival parties.
October/November 2023
Costume launches
I had the incredible opportunity to attend GenXS and YardMas' costume launches in October and November 2023, and let me tell you, they were absolutely mind-blowing experiences! But, truth be told, they didn't make the task of choosing a costume any less challenging; the options were just too spectacular. Thankfully, the adventure doesn't end there. After these jaw-dropping launches, you can head to the bands' showrooms to get up close and personal with the costumes. It's a chance to admire every intricate detail and truly get a feel for the magic they hold. Plus, you can also register with your chosen band and handpick the costume that resonates with your Carnival spirit.
March 24th - April 6th
Pre Carnival Parties
During the Pre-Carnival season, Kingston is on fire! You’ll find Soca and carnival-related events occurring almost every day, which is fantastic for connecting with fellow revelers. While you're in Kingston for Carnival season, take some time to explore the city's rich culture and history. Visit the Bob Marley Museum, sample delicious Jamaican cuisine, and enjoy the beautiful beaches nearby.
As of now I am plannig on the following events:
April 1st: I love Soca
April 3rd: Fete Gala (Xodus)
April 4th: Tailgate Ja (Xodus)
April 5th/6th: J'ouvert (GenXS)
1st week of April
Pick up your costume for Kingston Carnival
Unless you are using a carnival concierge, you’ll have to plan a day to pick up your costume. Your band will let you know the exact pick-up time and location.
April 6th
J’ouvert
My favorite and wildest party of the year! The paint and color party is traditionally taking place the night from Friday to Saturday and starts Saturday 2 am till 5 am.
I went with GenXs last year and it literally was one of the craziest events I ever attended! Even though I will be jumping with Xodus this year, I'll still make sure to join GenXS for their J'ouvert.
April 7th
Road March
All bands come together to jump the Kingston’s streets on April 7th, the main event! The Carnival parade in Kingston is a spectacle of music, dance, and vibrant costumes. It features numerous mas bands, each with its own theme and music truck. Be prepared to dance, jump, and celebrate as you follow the parade route through the streets of Kingston.
AFTER THE ROAD MARCH
XS Street: GenXS afer Road March Party. Click here for tickets.
The Wall: Independant after party. Click here for tickets
April 8th
OceanX and Sunset Fete (GenXs)
Taking place on Vex Monday, the day after the road march. The OceanX catermaran cruise will take us to Maiden Cay before delivering us back to the sunsets party in Port Royal.
After April 8th
I promise you that your carnival dates will be some of the most exciting but also exhausting days of your life. So, make sure to give yourself some time to relax and rejuvenate before heading back home. There are so many things to do in Kingston that will help you rejuvenate. I love going to the beaches near Kingston, which are only a short walk away.
3. Book flights and accommodation
Carnival is a pretty busy season so make sure to book accommodation and flights in time. I love staying with like-minded people, especially during carnival season, so you’ll find me either at Belleh23 or Rocksteady.
The Pegsasus Hotel is usually Xodus headquarters and also home to some pre-carnival events.
4. Know Kingston’s carnival bands
Let’s dive into the world of Kingston’s Carnival bands—it’s time to pick your band and your fabulous costume! What truly sets Jamaica’s Carnival apart is its incredible diversity. Each band boasts its unique community, atmosphere, and music, making it an exciting decision to make.
Choose a carnival band
Selecting the perfect carnival band is your ticket to dancing through Kingston’s streets come April. You’ll need to join a band and don one of their incredible costumes to get in on the action. These costumes are typically unveiled during fancy costume reveal events in November or December, creating a buzz of excitement.
But here’s a tip: the most sought-after costumes and sizes tend to fly off the shelves, so make sure to secure your spot early in the game!
GenXs
Proudly carrying on the legacy of its Miami counterpart, GenXS Carnival, this band brings diversity and inclusivity to the forefront. With an impressive track record and a commitment to celebrating Jamaican culture while promoting unity, GenXs promises an unforgettable Carnival experience filled with music, dance, and the joy of coming together to celebrate the spirit of Jamaica’s Carnival.
2024 Theme: Unsleash the dragon
GenXs costumes this year were incredible. I visted the showroom about 3 times and was super impressed by the deatil of the costumes.
Xodus
Xodus is supposedly Jamaica’s biggest carnival band. Since its inception in 2017, Xodus has been dominating the streets of Kingston and wowing crowds with its unmatched energy and excitement.
I had the pleasure of personally witnessing their jaw-dropping 2024 costume collection during a visit to their showroom. To say that they’re stunning would be an understatement!
For Jamaica’s Carnival 2024, Bacchanal teamed up with Xodus. Their costumes are Rave and Pop.
2024 Theme: Mas Couture
Among the incredible options, my current favorite has to be “Hippie!” The costumes exudes fun and freedom, making it a top contender for my Carnival attire.
Yardmas
What truly sets this carnival band apart is its unwavering Jamaican ownership and a seamless fusion with some of the island’s most prominent entertainment and lifestyle brands. I had the privilege of witnessing their mesmerizing costumes in action during a recent road march, and I found myself utterly enchanted by the meticulous craftsmanship and the kaleidoscope of vibrant hues.
2024 Theme: Premiere 2024
The theme this year is inspired by big movie classics such as Black Panther, Lion King, Dream Girls. Lion King was one of my favorite costumes of this year and I am super excited to see it on the road.
5. How to choose your carnival costume
Each version of a Caribbean Carnival costume caters to different preferences and comfort levels, ensuring everyone can participate in the vibrant and spirited celebrations according to their style and comfort.
Frontline: The Frontline costume is the most elaborate and eye-catching of all. It typically features extravagant designs, intricate details, and vibrant colors. Frontline costumes are often inspired by the theme of the Carnival band and are designed to be showstoppers. Those who choose to wear Frontline costumes take center stage during the parade, showcasing the band’s theme and craftsmanship in the most dramatic way. These costumes are often larger, more ornate, and may include headdresses, wings, and other striking elements.
Backline: Backline costumes offer a slightly more modest and practical option for revelers. While they still maintain the vibrant colors and spirit of Carnival, Backline costumes are generally simpler and more comfortable to wear. They provide a balance between style and ease of movement, making them a popular choice for those who want to participate in the festivities without the extravagance of a Frontline costume. Backline costumes may still include some decorative elements, but they are more understated compared to Frontline options.
Full Coverage: Full Coverage costumes are designed for those who prefer a bit more modesty and coverage while still embracing the Carnival spirit. These costumes typically feature more fabric and cover more of the body compared to Frontline and Backline options. Full Coverage costumes are a choice for individuals who want to participate in the Carnival but feel more comfortable with additional clothing. They still incorporate the colorful and festive elements of Carnival attire but provide a bit more coverage for those who desire it.
6. Things to know about the road march
1. Costume Pick-up: It can either be a delightful experience or a bit time-consuming, so it’s best to be well-prepared. To streamline the process:
– Expect to spend a day for costume collection.
– Fuel up with some food and drinks beforehand to keep those hunger pangs at bay.
2. Road Marches are all-inclusive affairs, so you can leave worries about drinks and snacks behind. Hydration is taken care of by accompanying drink trucks!
3. Watch from the side: You have the option to enjoy the road march from the sidelines without committing to a specific band.
4. Carnival is a season, not a day! Remember, the road march is just the beginning! Following the Carnival, all the carnival bands unite for the WI Fete, held one day after the main event. It’s a chance to revel in the hottest soca artists and dance to the year’s biggest hits in front of the Jamaican crowd.
7. Social Media channels to follow
Follow the most important Social Media channels to be in the know
Here is a quick list of Social Media channels to follow for carnival season in Kingston 2024
Bands
General
Events
8. Learn Caribbean carnival culture
Historical Origins of Caribbean Carnival:
The roots of Caribbean Carnival culture can be traced back to the Caribbean’s colonial history. Slavery and the forced migration of African people to the Caribbean islands brought with it a rich tapestry of African traditions and rituals. Over time, these cultural elements merged with European customs and indigenous influences, creating a unique and dynamic fusion of traditions.
The first recorded Caribbean Carnival celebrations can be found in Trinidad and Tobago during the late 18th century. These early festivities were a form of resistance and rebellion against slavery, offering a brief respite from the harsh realities of plantation life. As enslaved Africans and their descendants celebrated their culture, they created the foundation for what would become the modern Caribbean Carnival.
Traditional carnival characters such as the Moko Jumbie, Jab Jab or Dame Lorreine play a big part in other Caribbean carnivals, they are not common in Jamaica. Carnival stands out with its distinctive Jamaican flavor and dancehall rhythms.
Jamaica’s Carnival is a relatively new addition to the Caribbean Carnival scene, but it has quickly gained recognition for its unique blend of Jamaican culture and Caribbean Carnival traditions.
9. Learn the carnival slang
- Mas: Short for masquerade, it refers to the art of wearing costumes and participating in the Carnival parade.
- Fete: A lively party or social event often featuring music, dancing, and food, which is a prominent aspect of pre-Carnival celebrations.
- J’ouvert: The pre-dawn opening of Carnival, characterized by paint, mud, or oil-covered revelers taking to the streets for spirited celebrations.
- Soca: A popular genre of Caribbean music, known for its upbeat tempo and infectious rhythms, often associated with Carnival celebrations.
- Calypso: A traditional Caribbean music style that often features witty and humorous lyrics, played prominently during Carnival.
- Mas Band: A group of participants who wear coordinated costumes and perform together during the Carnival parade.
- Costume Designer: An individual or team responsible for creating the elaborate and colorful costumes worn by Carnival participants.
- Road March: The main parade during Carnival, where mas bands and revelers take to the streets to showcase their costumes and dance to soca music.
- Bacchanal: A term used to describe the wild and raucous festivities and revelry associated with Carnival in Jamaica. Also the name of a carnival band.
10. What to pack for a carnival in Jamaica
With your costumes, a delightful goodie bag awaits, filled with various small essentials to enhance your comfort during your exhilarating day on the road. You’ll find everything you need from deodorant to chewing gum, snacks, and even a handy vanity bag. However, for a truly seamless Carnival experience, make sure to pack these must-haves:
1. Sturdy and comfortable footwear: Be prepared for plenty of dancing, walking, and unrestrained revelry!
2. Sweat-resistant sunscreen: The sun in Kingston can be relentless, so don’t forget to bring a compact, travel-sized bottle to keep your skin protected on the road.
3. Hair and makeup: If you don’t have a friend with expert carnival makeup skills, treat yourself to a professional appointment for hair and makeup. You’re already investing in the Carnival experience, so go all out and pamper yourself!
4. Nipple pasties: Opt for comfortable, reliable nipple pasties to ensure a worry-free day.
5. Body powder or glitter: Add some extra sparkle and flair to your Carnival look with body powder or glitter, and you’ll shine even brighter in the festivities.
11. Get ready for the road
I hope you had a chance to recover from the Pre-Parties on the night from Saturday to Sunday and are now all geared up for the road ahead! The road marches usually kick off bright and early, so be prepared for some traffic as you make your way there.
On the morning of the road march, gather with your friends, have a delicious breakfast prepared, and begin the exciting process of getting carnival-ready.
Carnival makeup and styling can be quite intricate, and if you don’t feel confident doing it yourself, consider booking an appointment at a Glam Hub well in advance. This way, you can ensure you look and feel your absolute best for the festivities ahead!
Practical travel tips for Kingston & Jamaica
Which language is spoken in Jamaica?
The official language is English, but you'll also hear Jamaican Patois spoken throughout the country. It's a colorful and vibrant mix of English, West African languages, and Spanish influences. Don't be afraid to interact with locals and try out some basic phrases in Patois - they'll appreciate the effort and you may even learn a thing or two.
What is the offical currency in Jamaica?
The Jamaican dollar is the official currency and is accepted everywhere on the island. However, US dollars are widely accepted as well, so it's always a good idea to have some cash in both currencies. You can easily exchange your money at banks or ATMs throughout the city. Just be aware that the exchange rate may vary, so it's best to check before making a transaction. Also, don't forget to tip - it's customary in Jamaica and greatly appreciated by service industry workers. So make sure you have some small bills on hand for tipping at restaurants, bars, and hotels.
What is the best time to visit Kingston?
The climate stays pleasant all year round. It might rain a bit more during hurricane season from June to September, but you still won't get bored on rainy days!
Kingston is home to many festival and events, so if you want to check them out, plan your dates accordingly.
Is Kingston safe for travelers?
Downtown Kingston is not the place to just stroll around without knowing anybody. Uptown Kingston is much safer and easier to move around. Generally speaking, Kingston is not the place for walking anywhere after dark, and its best to move around with a driver you know.
Public Transport in Kingston, Jamaica
Route Taxis are the way to move around Jamaica. Official route taxis have a red license plate. In MoBay, you'll see the route they are catering to written on the doors. Route taxis are the cheapest and most flexible way to move around. Just be careful to enter/exit on the route. Otherwise, you'll be charged as a charter taxi. In Kingston, the Route Taxis are not as obvious, but they drive the most prominent streets and honk to let you know they are available.
Public Bus: The stop for buses to leave from downtown. I couldn't find a schedule. They seem to go more frequently than the Knutsford.
Knutsford: Leaving from from the downtown station, Jamaica's luxury bus connects more significant destinations. Be aware that the time stated refers to calculated driving time and not the actual time to reach a destination. Adding to the driving time are stops and bus switches which are not apparent when buying the ticket. Due to Covid, there are fewer buses than usual, so buying the ticket online is better.
Can I drink tap water in Jamaica?
Even though Jamaica is considered a third-world country, it provides the best water quality in the region. You are, therefore, safe to drink tap water. This is especially true in the cities. However, if it makes you feel uneasy, bring a water purifier.
What's the biggest challenge for the conscious traveler?
Tourism leakage: Jamaica is a tropical paradise that's adored by tourists worldwide, but it has a problem that's hidden from sight - tourism leakage. This phenomenon refers to the loss of revenue that occurs when international hotel chains capture a large chunk of tourist dollars, leaving very little money behind to benefit the local economy. If you're among the millions of visitors who flock to Jamaica every year, there's a simple way to help mitigate the effects of tourism leakage: support Jamaican-owned hotels, shops, and restaurants. By doing so, you can put your money where your heart is - and give the people of Jamaica a chance to thrive. So don't be shy about seeking out local businesses on your next vacation. Your decision to keep tourism dollars within Jamaica could make a world of difference.
Beach access
While Jamaica is known for its beautiful beaches, there have been some issues with access to these public spaces. In recent years, many resorts and private properties have restricted access to certain parts of the beach, making it incredibly difficult for locals to maintain their life and right to the sea. Support public beaches and say no to all-inclusive tourism!
Trash
Make sure to bring a foldable food container and cutlery with you! The amount of waste caused by food sold on the street is incredible.
Sunscreen
Make sure to protect Jamaica's marine life and bring reef-friendly sunscreen!
Packing List Jamaica
As you see, there are plenty of things to experience in Jamaica. To come fully prepared, check out my packing list for Jamaica, which includes everything from eco-friendly toiletries to sustainable fashion and even the coolest travel gadgets!
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