Grenada carnival, also known as Spicemas, has a rich history that dates back over a century. The carnival originated as a way for the island’s African slaves to celebrate their emancipation in 1834, and it has since evolved into a vibrant, two-week-long celebration of music, dance, and culture.
During the early years of Grenada carnival, the festivities were held in the streets of the capital city of St. George’s, with participants parading through the city in elaborate costumes and masks. Over time, the carnival grew in popularity and expanded to include a wide range of activities, including calypso competitions, steelpan performances, and soca music.
Despite its popularity, the carnival was temporarily suspended during periods of political unrest and economic hardship in Grenada. However, it was revived in the 1950s and has since become one of the island’s biggest cultural events, attracting thousands of visitors from around the world.
Today, Grenada carnival is celebrated annually in August, and it features a diverse range of events, including J’ouvert (a pre-dawn street party), the traditional masquerade parade, and the Soca and Calypso competitions, Monday Night Mas and the Tuesday afternoon parade of the bands. The carnival is also celebrated on several of the other islands in the Grenadian archipelago, including Carriacou and Petite Martinique.
Some Calypso performers that helped developed the art to what it is today are Mighty Unlucky with Tourist Leggo, ASP, Abortion Racket and Country Style. Mighty Inspector (original) Agriculture and Grenada. The Black Wizard with scores of great Calypsos, Wizard started singing in the early 70’s and is still performing today. Mighty Dictator with the popular Brighter out of Darkness. Ajamu who started in 1987 with several big hits is still singing today although he has switched to Gospel music. Ajamu holds the record of winning the Calypso Monarch the most times with Flying Turkey second.
For the first time there will be no Dimanche Gras show which for years comprise of the Calypso finals and the king and queen of the bands then leads into carnival morning J’ouvert. Spicemas has promised to correct this issue in next years carnival.
T.L. Neckles
