Date: October 2024
Budget: about $350-500 for the road march and J’óuvert
Stay: Blue Haven Hotel or Plantation Beach Villas
I have to admit, after my first Tobago Carnival, I was completely hooked! The energy, the culture, and the people—there’s just something so special about it. Now, I can’t get enough of Caribbean carnivals. In 2024, I’ve jumped in Jamaica, St Lucia and and Barbados, but Tobago Carnival 2024 is the one I’m most excited for.
After experiencing a few different carnivals, I’ve realized each one has its own unique vibe, just like the islands themselves.
Tobago is much smaller than Trinidad, this adds to the charm of its carnival, creating a more intimate and cozy atmosphere.
If you’re looking for a carnival experience that feels personal and laid-back, Tobago is the perfect place to immerse yourself in vibrant culture without the overwhelming crowds. It’s a chance to enjoy the colorful costumes, pulsating music, and joyful energy in a setting that’s a little more relaxed, but no less exciting.
Come along with me on this amazing journey!
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 $350
– Backpack “The Feathers” (optional): $200-$300
2. Know the dates and plan accordingly
Here’s the thing when you’re getting ready to jump with one of Tobago’s carnival bands – you need to be in the loop about the key events and dates. Accommodations, flights and costumes sell out quickly. Plus, you get to save some dollars by purchasing early bird tickets!
Even if you can’t make it for the big road march, there’s still a chance to experience some of the amazing pre-carnival parties that capture the true essence of the carnival spirit. Tobago Carnival is all about embracing the vibe, so be sure to catch these events and soak in the excitement leading up to the main festivities!
June/July 2024
Costume launches
I absolutely love costume launches! They really kick off the carnival excitement in the best way possible. But with so many stunning options, choosing a costume is never easy! The fun doesn’t end at the launch, though. You can visit the bands’ showrooms, get up close to the costumes, and appreciate every beautiful detail. It’s the perfect chance to feel the carnival magic, sign up with your favorite band, and pick the costume that speaks to your carnival spirit.
September
PRE CARNIVAL PARTIES & EVENTS
In the lead-up to Carnival, Tobago truly comes alive! Soca beats fill the air, and there are carnival-themed events happening almost daily. It’s the perfect chance to soak in the vibrant atmosphere and connect with other revelers, setting the stage for an unforgettable carnival experience.
October 18th-25th
PICK UP YOUR COSTUME FOR TOBAGO 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.
October 26th
J'OUVERT & NIGHT MAS
This is hands down my favorite and craziest event of the season! The paint and color party kicks off the night before the parade of the bands, bringing non-stop energy and fun. Tobago's Night Mas and J'ouvert will light up the night on Saturday, October 26th, and it’s an experience you definitely don’t want to miss!
October 27th
PARADE OF THE BANDS
October 27th is the big day in Scarborough when all the mas bands take over the streets! With each band bringing its own theme and music, it's a dazzling spectacle. Get ready to dance, jump, and celebrate as you follow the parade through Scarborough’s lively streets!
GET READY FOR THE ROAD
If you feel overwhelmed by doing your own carnival make-up, check out Face Candy Studio. You get $10 of using the discount code ABUNDANCE
3. Book flights and accommodation
Tobago Carnival happens during the low season, making flights harder to find and more expensive, so book early! With the carnival growing and the island being small, planning ahead is key. Flights from Trinidad to Tobago are sold out, but you can still book a ferry.
Most parties are near Crown Point, and central areas to stay include Bon Accord, Buccoo, and Scarborough.
My favorite stays are:
Blue Haven Hotel – Scarbourough (perfect for the parade):
I love staying at Blue Haven Hotel during Tobago’s Carnival season because its peaceful beachfront location offers a perfect retreat after the high-energy festivities. The ocean views and charming colonial-style architecture make it feel like a home away from home, where I can unwind and recharge.
Plantation Beach Villas – Black Rock
I love staying at Plantation Beach Villas during Tobago Carnival because it feels like my own tropical sanctuary amidst all the festivities. The serene surroundings and spacious villas are the perfect escape after a day of jumping with the band, and the stunning views of the beach just steps away help me recharge for the next adventure. It’s a home away from home, with that extra touch of Caribbean charm.
4. Know St. Tobago’s carnival bands
I’m excited to be jumping with Abundance for Tobago Carnival 2024, wearing the Scarlet Ibis costume, beautifully designed by Carlana Ramlochansingh and inspired by Trinidad’s national bird, the Scarlet Ibis.
These bands are participating in Tobago’s carnival 2024:
5. How to choose your carnival costume
Choosing the right carnival band is your ticket to dancing through Scarborough’s streets this October. To fully enjoy the experience, you’ll need to join a band and wear one of their stunning costumes.
Pro tip: Popular costumes and sizes sell out fast, so it’s best to secure yours early!
Costume options:
Frontline: The ultimate showstopper with bold designs, vibrant colors, and dramatic elements like large headdresses. These costumes are all about making a statement.
Backline: A stylish yet practical option, offering comfort and movement while still embracing the colorful carnival vibe.
Full Coverage: Perfect for those who prefer more modesty, these costumes offer more fabric while still capturing the festive spirit of Carnival.
6. Things to know about the road march
Costume Collection: Picking up your costume can be a breeze or take some time, so to make it smoother:
- Set aside a full day for costume pickup.
- Eat to avoid being hangry
Road March: Don’t worry about food or drinks during the Road March – the trucks have you covered!
Spectator Option: You can still enjoy the Road March from the sidelines if you’re not jumping with a band.
Carnival Season: Carnival is a multi-day celebration, not just a one-day event!
7. Social Media channels to follow
Here is a quick list of Social Media channels to follow for carnival season in Tobago 2024.
Follow the most important Social Media channels to be in the know!
8. What to pack for a carnival in Tobago
As you embark on your Carnival adventure, anticipate a delightful surprise waiting in your costume bag. Packed with small essentials, it ensures your comfort throughout the exhilarating day ahead. From deodorant to chewing gum, snacks, and a handy vanity bag, you’ll find all you need for an unforgettable experience.
However, to truly elevate your Carnival journey, don’t overlook these must-have items:
- Sturdy and Comfortable Footwear: Expect endless dancing, walking, and carefree revelry. Ensure your footwear is up to the task for a seamless experience.
- Sweat-Resistant Sunscreen: Shield yourself from the relentless Kingston sun with a compact, travel-sized bottle of sweat-resistant sunscreen. Protect your skin while enjoying the festivities.
- Hair and Makeup: Treat yourself to professional hair and makeup services for an expert Carnival look. Embrace the spirit of the event and indulge in pampering to enhance your experience.
- Nipple Pasties: Opt for comfortable, reliable nipple pasties to ensure a worry-free day of celebration.
- Body Powder or Glitter: Add an extra touch of sparkle and flair to your Carnival ensemble with body powder or glitter. Shine bright and stand out in the vibrant festivities.
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. Get ready for the road
I hope you’ve recovered from Saturday night’s pre-parties and are ready for the road ahead! Road marches usually kick off early, so plan for some traffic.
Start your morning with friends, enjoy a hearty breakfast, and get ready for the day. If you’re not comfortable doing your own carnival makeup, book a Glam Hub appointment in advance to ensure you look your best for the big day!
Get ready to travel Trinidad & Tobago
Language: English
Currency: TT Dollar
Public Transport in Trinidad & Tobago
Public transport in Trinidad and is fairly reliable, safe, and easy to use (you just might need time). The main form of public transportation is the maxi taxi or minibus which are basically large vans that can fit between 8-12 people. Taxis are also available for hire from most major cities and airports. TT rideshare is the Trini version of Uber and works great! Loved it!
Tobago is a different story, especially as you venture away from Scarborough. TT Rideshare does not work in Tobago and so you’ll have to rely on taxis, buses (which run quite infrequent) and rides you catch with locals.
Best time to travel Trinidad & Tobago
The best time to visit is between December and May when the weather is dry and somewhat cool. This makes it the perfect time for beach trips and outdoor activities like hiking.
The two islands also have their own unique festivals. In Trinidad, the annual Trinidad Carnival is a must-see event that takes place in February and lasts for several days with parades, music, dancing, and lots of fun.
Trinidad and Tobago are outside of the hurrican belt. Therefore you do not have to fear hurricanes though the rain can get super heavy during the rain season which last from June to October.
Are Trinidad & Tobago safe?
It is generally safe to travel Trinidad and Tobago and we always felt very well looked out for. While the capital city of Port of Spain has become somewhat more notorious, we could fully enjoy the city with certain precautions taken in any capital in the region.
Internet & Phone
Internet and phone service is available in the major cities and on most of the countryside. You can purchase SIM cards for your cell phone to use with local carriers such as Digicel or Bmobile. The wifi speeds are decent, although they tend to be slower in more rural areas.
Tap water in Trinidad & Tobago
Tap water in Trinidad and Tobago is generally safe to drink, but it may come out of the tap hot or with an unpleasant taste. I still always fell better to use my water filter just to be sure.
Transport between Trinidad and Tobago
The most convenient and fastest way to get between Trinidad and Tobago is the inter-island ferry. It takes around 2 hours and there are several departure times a day. The ferry typically costs around $ US 70 each way, although prices can vary depending on time of year and day of the week. Alternatively, you can fly between the two islands with Caribbean Airlines or a few other smaller regional airlines.
Biggest challenges for the responsible traveler
Trash. Street food almost always comes wrapped in aluminum foil, and many restaurants serve it in to-go boxes. Luckily enough, a foldable food container will go a long way.
Generally speaking, responsible tourism practices are not (yet) prevalent in Trinidad or Tobago. Therefore, wear eco-friendly sunscreen when visiting waterfalls and the beach.
Sunscreen: Protect Marine life and wear reef-friendly sunscreen!
Sunscreen: Protect Trinidads coast by using reef-friendly sunscreen.
Best place to stay in Tobago
For me, Blue Haven Hotel and Plantation Beach Villas are the ultimate spots to stay during Tobago Carnival.
Blue Haven offers this unique blend of history and charm, with its elegant rooms and breathtaking views of the ocean—perfect for unwinding after a day of festivities.
On the other hand, Plantation Beach Villas feels like a secluded tropical hideaway where I can relax and recharge in complete privacy. Both places offer a sense of tranquility that beautifully balances the vibrant energy of Carnival, making my experience in Tobago even more memorable.
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