The Carnival Landscape

Carnival in Trinidad and Tobago is a dynamic fusion of culture and festivity, intricately crafted with numerous moving parts. It’s more than just a celebration; it’s the epitome of the nation’s identity, characterized by meticulous planning and flawless execution. This overview provides a glimpse into the essential elements of Carnival, offering insight into both its vibrant energy and the practical considerations of managing expenses.

Bands and Costumes

When you think about Carnival, elaborate costumes, feathered headdresses, and dancing through the streets often come to mind. This is what we call playing ‘Mas’, short for Masqueraders. Masqueraders join a band, participate in the Carnival festivities, and dance along the parade route.

Most bands offer all-inclusive packages, ensuring you have everything you need for the ultimate Carnival adventure.

All-inclusive Packages

The following are typically included (but may vary from band to band):

• Music truck with live DJs
• Home-cooked food (breakfast & lunch) and various snacks
• Unlimited premium drinks
• Top-notch security
• Mobile restroom facilities
• On-site paramedics
• Cool-down and re-touch zones
• Gem gluing station
• Massage station
• After-party (not included in all bands)
• Lollies, ice cream, and drinks to keep you refreshed.

Carnival costumes vary in price based on style, complexity, backpack customization, and additional features such as feathers, beads, and accessories. Another major factor is your ‘line’ position. Costumes often come in different “lines,” ranging from Backline to Frontline, Ultra Frontline, and even Section Leader. Each line offers varying levels of extravagance and includes different costume elements. The Backline typically features simpler more basic designs, often consisting of a designed bra, panty, tiara, and with minimal arm and leg pieces with very few feathers, if any at all. Frontline add-ons and upgrades are the most costly. However, there are several options for every budget and style preference. Prices for full masquerade costumes with big bands typically range from $700 to over $3,000. There are smaller, less expensive bands and we’re working on securing discounted group pricing depending on numbers. These bands start around $490.

If the current pricing exceeds your budget, consider J’ouvert as an alternative way to enjoy the carnival experience without the elaborate costume design of playing Mas (Masquerade).

J’ouvert

Jouvert, pronounced “joo-vay,” is the lively and colorful pre-dawn celebration that kicks off Trinidad and Tobago Carnival. Revelers dance through the streets covered in paint, mud, and powder, embracing the freedom of expression and the spirit of Carnival. It’s an exhilarating experience where participants come together to celebrate life, culture, and community in the most joyous and uninhibited way possible.

J’ouvert also offers all-inclusive packages with simpler yet colorful costumes, usually comprising printed t-shirts, vests, or monokinis. Pricing is more affordable allowing you to still be part of a band parading on the streets and having a great time.

Here are some recommended bands to join in the J’ouvert revelry:

• Dirty Dozen J’ouvert: Experience vibes on a million with packages starting at $150 per person.
• J’ouvert Jumbeez: Enjoy a lively experience loosely associated with YUMA, with packages starting at $180 per person.
• Dirty Medics: Known for its eclectic mix of everything you need for a fantastic time, packages start at $160 per person.
• M.A.D J’ouvert: Guarantee generational fun with great music and vibes, with packages starting at $170 per person.
• Red Ants J’ouvert: Part of the TRIBE family band, promises an unforgettable experience with packages starting at $200 per person.
• Mudders International: Catering to a slightly older crowd, Mudders International ensures an enjoyable J’ouvert experience, with packages starting at $190 per person.

Registration Fee

In addition to costume costs, registration fees may apply, typically ranging from $50 to $500. These fees vary depending on the band and package selected.

Optional Add-Ons:

There are several add-ons to enhance your Carnival experience like makeup services, professional photography, and the ultimate must-have: fishnet stockings. Prices vary depending on the band and specific services chosen.

Fetes (a.k.a Parties)

Endless parties all season long, this was the line-up for 2024

The term ‘fete,’ (pronounced FET), originating from French, embodies the lead-up to Carnival celebrations in Trinidad & Tobago. These events, often themed and featuring top DJs, offer rounds of soca music, dancing, and delicious Caribbean food and drinks. Fetes come in various forms, including all-inclusive parties, cooler fetes, boat parties, and beach events, with pricing starting from $50. All-inclusive fetes, the priciest option, provide unlimited premium assortments starting at $100 and reaching up to $500 or more per ticket. Exclusive events like Caesar’s Army’s AMBush or Vale Vibe offer VIP packages ranging from $200 to $1000 or more, featuring extravagant setups, and top-notch entertainment from internationally renowned artists.

Fete Fever: Where the Soca Beats Never Cease

You can have a blast without breaking the bank! With numerous events taking place each night leading up to carnival there’s no shortage of Fetes to enjoy. One highlight on our itinerary is a boat party that promises endless fun at an affordable price. But if money is no object, you can also indulge in the most luxurious experiences imaginable!

EARLY-BIRD PRICING

See below for all-inclusive package pricing for your 5-night Trinidad and Tobago Carnival experience in 2025. Choose from a range of packages tailored to your preferences and budget. Our deluxe package in blue offers the complete luxe hotel accommodation experience, while our budget-friendly option in yellow, caters to the more cost-conscious travelers.

As mentioned throughout this page, costume and fete (party) costs are NOT included in the prices below, as band launches begin in June/July, and pricing varies. Masquerade costumes typically range from $700 to $3000, while Jouvert costumes start at $150. Party pricing ranges from $50 to $1,000+.

To recap our all-inclusive package covers pricing and services as follows:

• Airfare (flight scheduling and booking, in addition to mandatory travel insurance)
• Hotel accommodation and breakfast
• Ground transportation and coordination. (Airport to hotel and all venues)
• Band registration assistance
• Costume pick-up and drop-off
• Fete ticket management
• Two beach excursions
• Optional payment plan
• Optional meal service
• Access to pre-carnival online Soca classes
• In-person hosting throughout your Carnival stay.

Buying An Experience

As you consider pricing, it’s important to remember that Trinidad Carnival is more than just a price tag. It’s about the experiences you’ll cherish, the memories you’ll create, and the connections you’ll forge. Life is about collecting moments, not things, and Trinidad Carnival offers a wealth of unforgettable moments that will stay with you forever. It’s not surprising that many find themselves drawn back year after year, reliving the splendor of this magical celebration. 💛

All-inclusive Package Pricing

Additionally, we offer pricing options for quad rooms and suites, which we can discuss further during our consultation. For instance, a single room in a boutique hotel starts at just $3,273 per person, while a single suite is priced at $3,673 per person. Families or friend groups can benefit from savings with quad room accommodations. Keep in mind that this 5-day experience is packed with fun-filled activities, so most of your time will be spent outside the hotel. While hotel accommodation is important for some holidays, the nature of this trip is centered around lively festivities, making it less of a priority.

Payment Schedule

Early Deposit: A deposit of 60% is due upfront to secure your airfare and hotel accommodations. This ensures your spot and allows us to finalize your travel arrangements. Please note that this deposit is non-refundable.

Remaining Balance: The remaining 40% can be spread over the year, with some payments made closer to the Carnival date.

Payment Methods

We accept payment via all major credit cards, including Visa, through our secure online shopping cart on our website. Invoices are also provided for your convenience. Please note that failure to adhere to the payment timeline may result in the cancellation of your reservation.