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Dominica Carnival
Mas Domnik an exciting time of mass and merriment, a time when all classes, varied backgrounds push aside their differences for the Party of the year. Tourists as well as natives join together, with one and only one aim that is that of having the grandest time during the Carnival Season. The Nature Island of the Caribbean, the lush greenness of the Island depicts the friendly and fun loving nature of the people. During the 10-day celebration there are lots of activities taking place around the Island catering to the needs of everyone, from the conservative to the adventure lover who is willing to try anything. The Calypso tents are alive with the fierce competition of the calypsonians as they vie for supremacy, to be crowned the Calypso Monarch of the year.
Carnival on the Island began in the 1950's and consisted of colourful floats, moving through the streets to the sounds of steelpan and goatskin drums. Organized bands at that time were very few, but stood out greatly, the Thunderbirds for example. Their presentation would bring out a uniqueness and creativity that seem to give them the edge over the others. In 1963 a fire placed a damper on all other Carnival celebrations, when a fire caused by revelers, which claimed lives. This brought about the banning of Sensays and a total concentration on Carnival Shows, e.g., Calypso competition, Steelbands competitions and Queen Shows. The old days saw costumes Sensays, cowboys and sooswell soowi", now the costumes have graduated to the large, the beautiful and creative masterpieces that are now portrayed on the streets of the nation.
Mas Domnik, a time of reveling and fun, a time when anything goes, when everyone frees up, no thought for problems or politics, just a time of pure enjoyment. Good food, good fun and a whole lot of music for dancing and feeling rhythm. The calypsonians have improved tremendously and that has made for greater excitement in Dominica.
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