Dominica, renowned as “The Nature Island”, is welcoming all carnival lovers to its streets to participate in “Mas An Lawi” – the theme of this year’s carnival.
Discover Dominica Authority (DDA) said on Monday that the native kwèyol phrase for “carnival in the streets,” perfectly describes Dominica’s Real Mas, an authentic display of revelry, freedom and culture with tasteful nods to the West African and Creole roots of the island.
“But much more than a display, Dominica’s Carnival engages participation and togetherness by locals and visitors alike,” it said.
DDA said this year’s Miss Dominica pageant, the national queen show, will showcase five beautifully talented ladies, as they seek the coveted throne.
At the most recent carnival press conference, Moesha Thomas of Petite Soufriere was officially sashed by her sponsor, the Dominica National Lottery.
Additionally, Adicia Burton of the Kalinago Territory received sponsorship from Petro Caribe Dominica and was also sashed. Both ladies gave speeches thanking their sponsors. The three other contestants are Tarnia Latoya Eugene, Sandrin Elizee and Meeya Francis.
The Miss Dominica Pageant will be held on Thursday, Feb. 16 at the Carnival City (Windsor Park Sports Stadium’s Forecourt) from 8: 00 p.m.
The Carnival Princess Show, organized by the Rotaract Club of Dominica, was held on Sunday, Feb. 5.
DDA said other exciting events to look out for include the weekly Stardom Tent and Mas Camp shows featuring local calypsonians who each give their rendition of local or global matters, “creatively and often humorously expressed through the art of song.”
Stardom Tent, which celebrates 50 years this year, is held each Wednesday, from Jan. 18, at Petit Miami, formerly Anchorage Hotel.
Mas Camp is held each Friday, from Jan. 20, at M&G Jerk Hut Bar & Grill. Both venues are in Castle Comfort, an eight-minute drive south of the capital, Roseau.
Meanwhile, DDA said the Portsmouth Carnival Committee has brought back “jump up” back to the streets of Portsmouth with the return of the Portsmouth Town Parade Carnival.
DDA said Dat is Kanaval, a new event on the carnival calendar, will feature Alison Hinds of Barbados, DJ Wizz of NYC with Dominican roots, Triple Kay International, Unstoppable DJs, Kenny G, DJ Reo and more. The event is carded for Friday, Feb. 10 from 9:00 p.m. at Carnival City.
“The Nature Island welcomes all to experience the Caribbean’s Real Mas An Lawi,” DDA said.
