TBA. Events are usually held in February.
The Carriacou Carnival is celebrated on the island of Carriacou and Petite Martinique; situated northeast of Grenada.
The Carriacou Carnival, rooted in a rich history, is a vibrant and culturally significant celebration held on the island of Carriacou, part of the tri-island state of Grenada in the Caribbean. The carnival’s origins trace back to the influence of African, European, and Indigenous cultures that have shaped the island’s history. As with many Caribbean carnivals, Carriacou Carnival emerged as a dynamic fusion of traditions brought by colonial settlers and African slaves, resulting in a unique cultural expression.
Throughout the years, the Carriacou Carnival has evolved, integrating various elements such as colorful costumes, lively music, and energetic dance performances. The festival typically takes place in late February or early March, aligning with the broader Caribbean carnival season leading up to Lent. The celebrations in Carriacou showcase a blend of traditional and modern carnival elements, with participants donning elaborate costumes, engaging in vibrant street parades, and participating in competitive events.
Central to the carnival are the traditional masquerade bands, each with its distinct characters and themes. The Jab Jab, portraying devils with painted bodies and elaborate horns, is one of the iconic figures seen during the festivities. Calypso music and steelpan bands contribute to the lively atmosphere, with locals and visitors alike taking part in the revelry.
In recent years, efforts to preserve and promote the unique cultural heritage of Carriacou Carnival have gained momentum, ensuring that this celebration continues to be a significant and cherished event for generations to come.
Carriacou’s Carnival is a lively and culturally rich celebration, offering a unique and vibrant experience for both locals and visitors.
Participants don colorful and elaborate costumes, contributing to the festive and visually stunning atmosphere of the carnival. The costumes often reflect a mix of cultural influences, blending African, European, and Indigenous traditions.
The heart of Carriacou's Carnival lies in its lively street parades. Bands, revelers, and masqueraders fill the streets, moving to the rhythms of calypso music and steelpan bands. It's a dynamic and energetic procession that captures the essence of the celebration.
Like many Caribbean carnivals, Carriacou's celebration includes J'ouvert morning. This pre-dawn event involves revelers covered in paint, mud, or oil, celebrating in the streets before the more formal festivities begin.
The carnival is accompanied by the infectious beats of calypso music and the melodic sounds of steelpan bands. These musical elements add to the joyous and celebratory atmosphere, encouraging people to dance and revel in the festivities.
Carriacou is easy to reach whether you’re coming from elsewhere in Grenada, across the Caribbean, or internationally.
To score the best Carnival fares, compare prices across top travel sites like:
KAYAK – Perfect for comparing flight prices at a glance.
Expedia – Ideal if you want to bundle your flight + hotel.
Trip.com – Great for flexible travel dates and multilingual support.
The best base is Hillsborough, Carriacou’s main town, which puts you within walking distance of parades, fetes, and food stalls. For a quieter experience, consider beachfront guesthouses or small hotels around Tyrell Bay or Paradise Beach.
Use the above map to find and book stays near the Carnival parade route!
Getting around Carriacou during Carnival is easy thanks to the island’s small size and short travel times between Hillsborough and the main event areas.
We’ve gathered some of our best Carnival travel blogs to help you plan for Kayak Mas and other festivals worldwide:
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