CARIBBEAN CARNIVAL COUNTDOWN 2012
The Christmas decorations are down and the New Year’s parties are finished. But there are plenty of festivities lined up for the year ahead as the islands of the Caribbean prepare to party 2012 style. Here is our countdown to just a handful of the many colourful, exciting carnivals that make the Caribbean what it is -a picture-perfect group of islands with a rich cultural heritage and a liking for all things hot, hot, hot!
St. Martin Carnival February
The infectious carnival mix of dancing, music-making and parades takes over the little island of St Maarten/St Martin.
Trinidad and Tobago Carnival: March
The world-famous street festival is an event not to be missed, from the colourful costumes to the flamboyant Caribbean dance and music, this extravagant celebration is a hit with adults and children alike.
St Lucia Jazz Festival: April / May
Bringing together jazz, soul, cool calypso beats and world rhythms from some of the greatest artists in the music industry, this star-studded festival is celebrating its 20th year and, with previous line-ups including artists such as the late Amy Winehouse, Corinne Bailey Rae and Chaka Kahn, it is a must for music lovers.
Barbados Crop Over: July
This month-long historic celebration has been taking place since the 1780’s and marks the end of the year's sugar cane season. It kicks off with a traditional ceremony, followed by a big party, in which costumed revellers and calypso bands parade through the streets of Bridgetown.
For further information see the Caribbean Tourist Organisation web site www.caribbeantravel.com
Virgin Atlantic flies to a number of Caribbean destinations. See www.virginatlantic.com