11 Best World Festivals to Attend in 2023

5. Trinidad Carnival, Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago, Feb. 15-23, 2023

What it is: Known as the birthplace of carnival in the Caribbean, more than 35,000 people visit Trinidad to experience “the mother of all carnivals” in the region every February in the week preceding Lent. Trinidad carnival celebrates both emancipation from slavery and creative expression. Like locals, tourists can dress up or, “play mas,” and parade down Port of Spain streets, or simply watch.

The highlights are J’ouvert, a sunrise mud, oil and paint street party followed by Carnival Monday, and the main Carnival Tuesday, or “pretty mas” parade, when the feathered and bejeweled costumes emerge and carnival bands compete. Further popular events during this season that you’ll want to catch: the reenactment of the Canboulay riots of 1881, when emancipated people were celebrating freedom and the British tried to ban their carnival festivities; the Carnival King and Queen competition; Panorama, a steel pan band competition in the birthplace of this instrument; and the many private themed “fetes” or parties. Afterward, get some rest on the beach in Tobago.

How far ahead you need to plan: You’ve probably missed the boat for 2023. For 2024, book flights and your hotel as early as you can; rooms can sell out up to a year in advance. Expect high prices. You might best book as soon as the dates for 2024 are announced. Reserve your hotel room, get your plane tickets and preorder a costume to take part in the fanfare. Tickets to private parties sell out fast, too, so keep your eyes open for online announcements.

How you get there: Fly into Piarco International Airport. Check the calendar for updated information on where events will take place and how to reach them. Most band parades end at Queen’s Park Savannah Stadium.

Where you should stay: The BRIX Hotel, Autograph Collection, is the latest addition to the city and close to Queen’s Park Savannah, where many Carnival events take place. Hyatt Regency Trinidad is a longtime favorite.

Travel agencies that can help: Liberty Travel, or contact Soca Islands for “all inclusive” packages to Trinidad Carnival.

(Image: Wikimedia Commons)