Bahamas Junkanoo Carnival
Posted by Jody C. Wells/Tonia Ferguson
on Nov 26, 2014
There was absolutely no better place to begin a ‘sunrise’ morning than with the Rotarians of the Sunrise Club. Last week a lively and interactive discussion about the upcoming Carnival was delivered.
Presenter Paul Major engaged the Rotarians and guests November 20 about the Bahamas Junkanoo Carnival. According to Mr. Major, the event scheduled for next year May promises to provide year-round employment. He views the carnival as an economic drive (and necessary) for the country. Comparing the event to Junkanoo, he stated, “nobody knows Junkanoo. Carnivals are among the largest generating festivals in the world.” It is expected that some $30 million will be circulated within the economy as a result.
Recognizing that the Bahamas has incorporated carnival late compared to other Caribbean islands, Paul also noted that the Bahamas’ strengths would help to propel it to provide a competitive edge. Some advantages include a ‘well established’ destination brand and developed plant infrastructure.
Robust about the costumes, Mr. Major stated that they are a collage of our culture. He also said that the Junkanoo would make the Bahamas Carnival different from the other carnivals. Additionally, the incorporation of the marching bands, art exhibitions, mega music concerts, and street parties will increase the competitiveness.
Some twenty-seven companies have registered and Festival Village will encompass Fort Charlotte and Fish Fry. Ensuring a natural display of our islands, local raw materials must be a part of each of the groups’ costumes.
Then. . .there is that sweet ‘ole’ Junkanoo music. Rotarians and guests were treated to the CD, ‘Jumps In da Line’ – a compilation of 25 songs selected for the Bahamas Carnival.
What a way to get the morning started!
Presenter Paul Major engaged the Rotarians and guests November 20 about the Bahamas Junkanoo Carnival. According to Mr. Major, the event scheduled for next year May promises to provide year-round employment. He views the carnival as an economic drive (and necessary) for the country. Comparing the event to Junkanoo, he stated, “nobody knows Junkanoo. Carnivals are among the largest generating festivals in the world.” It is expected that some $30 million will be circulated within the economy as a result.
Recognizing that the Bahamas has incorporated carnival late compared to other Caribbean islands, Paul also noted that the Bahamas’ strengths would help to propel it to provide a competitive edge. Some advantages include a ‘well established’ destination brand and developed plant infrastructure.
Robust about the costumes, Mr. Major stated that they are a collage of our culture. He also said that the Junkanoo would make the Bahamas Carnival different from the other carnivals. Additionally, the incorporation of the marching bands, art exhibitions, mega music concerts, and street parties will increase the competitiveness.
Some twenty-seven companies have registered and Festival Village will encompass Fort Charlotte and Fish Fry. Ensuring a natural display of our islands, local raw materials must be a part of each of the groups’ costumes.
Then. . .there is that sweet ‘ole’ Junkanoo music. Rotarians and guests were treated to the CD, ‘Jumps In da Line’ – a compilation of 25 songs selected for the Bahamas Carnival.
What a way to get the morning started!
