Despite the almost empty stands at South Quay, the Downtown Port of Spain mas band judging point, scores of eager spectators–some going home from Jouvert–lined the pavements yesterday, excited to soak in Monday Mas costumes.
Among the large bands crossing the judging station were Tribe, Showtime Carnival, Ronnie and Caro, and Paparazzi. Monday Mas judging follows the revelry of Jouvert and serves as a prelude to Carnival Tuesday, when masqueraders emerge in full costumes for final judging.
Yesterday, the First Citizens Original Jab Jab presented Whip Festivals, featuring jab jabs of all ages. The sharp cracks of whips and a dramatic whip fight kept the crowd on edge.
Following this, many midnight robbers took to the stage, each delivering powerful portrayals of modern-day struggles such as overconsumption, greed, and lust. One particular female midnight robber, cloaked in flowing black robes with striking purple accents and silver trinkets, commanded attention by portraying the otherworldly presence of a villain seemingly born from myth and shadow.
The T&T Rovers then introduced a nostalgic twist with a trio of minstrels, their harmonies weaving through the air as they serenaded the crowd with classic love songs. This heartfelt performance set the stage for Hott Stuff Promotions’ presentation, A Touch of Africa. The band’s designer, Franklyn Jagdeo, donned a spectacular costume symbolising the soul of a spirit doctor. His ensemble, a haunting fusion of black and white fabrics, was embellished with shimmering silver tinsel, evoking the eerie mystique of a voodoo priest.
Women’s costume portrayals from this band included The African Woman, Sunrise and Sunset, and the African Woman Drum Player, featuring rich earthy browns, mirroring the deep hues of melanin, alongside gold, red, and yellow accents evoking the vibrancy of African heritage. The seamless blend of colours and textures brought Jagdeo’s vision to life, transforming fabric and form into a living tribute to the strength, culture, and the spirit of the African diaspora.
MEETING THE PEOPLE: Acting Prime Minister Stuart Young poses for a photo with a patron in the Downtown Stands at South Quay, Port of Spain, yesterday during the Parade of Bands. —Photos: ROBERT TAYLOR
Acting PM pleased
Acting Prime Minister and Energy Minister Stuart Young appeared at the Downtown judging point, engaging with patrons and taking selfies with attendees. Speaking to the media, he said this year’s Carnival celebrations are filled with positive energy and called for festivities to continue on the same trajectory.
“I’d like to congratulate, in particular, Pan Trinbago for successfully continuing a successful Panorama 2025 which culminated in the big bands. This morning (yesterday) we’ve had Jouvert all over the country, I got reports of Jouvert in Cedros, Couva, Point Fortin, Port of Spain and San Fernando, and it’s all gone well. So, let’s hope we stay that way,” said Young.
He added, “Carnival is a very positive part of our culture, Canboulay and these types of things. Last night (Sunday night) we had a good Dimanche Gras, so let us hope we continue that way to the end of Carnival. I’m very happy with the level of energy and positivity. These are the things—some of the things—that make us so special.”
In an interview downtown, Port of Spain Mayor Chinua Alleyne said there have been no reports of any incidents from Jouvert morning in the city.
“It was a good Jouvert celebration this morning. The mas has started…and we have been seeing bands steadily making their way downtown. We expect that as we go further into the afternoon, we will see a lot more bands come through the South Quay stage…It’s been better this year than last year”, he said.
