2013 Atlanta Caribbean Carnival and Parade – Saturday May 25
Last month, The Peach Review® attended the press conference and official launch of the 2013 Atlanta Caribbean Carnival. The event is celebrating 25 years of Mas and Music to the Atlanta community. This event will be bigger, brighter, and better then ever before. If you are looking for a place to hear great music, see colorful costumes, and hot dance moves – then grab a flag or rag and get ready to jump up in the air!!!!
The Atlanta Caribbean Carnival Bandleaders Association, Inc (A.C.C.B.A.) is a diverse group of individuals representing many Caribbean islands who came together to form the Carnival back in 1987 (officially named A.C.C.B.A. in 2003). Their purpose back then was to educate the Atlanta community on the Caribbean culture through a West Indian style carnival. Needless to say 25 years later, not only have they accomplished their goal but this event brings in many visitors from all over the world in various carnival themed costumes and float ready for a ‘bacchanal time’. In 2011, thirty percent more attended and this year there will be even more mas bands, troupes and organizations participating in the parade.
This year’s parade will be honoring the past and present Presidents who have all played an integral role in the success of the Atlanta Caribbean Carnival. The parade Grand Marshall will be the eccentric Dwight Eubanks from the Real Housewives of Atlanta. The parade begins at 12 noon on Vine Street NW and ending at the Festival Village in the Morris Brown Herndon Football Stadium. For all those who want to attend it is highly recommended to take Marta as we all know how traffic in the city can be on weekends.
The Peach Review® would like to share a little Carnival Glossary of Terms so you know a ting or two 🙂
“Mas Band” this refers to the participants in a group, with a single theme. The Bands may have more then one “Section” (masqueraders wearing different costumes bul all with the Band’s single theme. The masqueraders dance throughout the parade and their method of dance/rhythm is called “Playing Mas”.
“Mas Camp” refers to the place where the mas band produces its costumes and are taught how to design and produce their costumes. These Camps generate excitement and assist the Bands in raising funds.
“Steel Pan Band” refers to the only musical instrument invented in the 20th century. Steel Pan Bands are an orchestra of musical players who are able to dance in the parade while playing calypso on their instruments.
Photos courtesy of Hakim Wright www.hksrphotography.com
-Desmond
The Peach Review®
