Carnival Do's and Don'ts

11 April 2012
The Weekender

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Although there's no rules, an unspoken etiquette is followed by most to allow everyone to have a funky, fun day. We've compiled a list of do's and don'ts to get you prepared.

Do let yourself go. Relax, dance, gibber - whatever suits - after all the carnival is a friendly communal affair.

Don't show off expensive jewellery or carry large amounts of cash or valuables.

Do dress casually in loose fitting clothes. Remember you've got to be ready to soca, samba and soul the night away.

Don't forget to eat. If you're burning off all those calories boogying, you need to drink and eat. Check out the food stalls and pubs serving delicious Caribbean nibbles.

Do bring a map. The route has altered so make sure you know where you're heading. It's easy to get lost and the masses of people make it difficult to keep your sense of direction.

Don't go if you're claustrophobic.

Do wear comfortable shoes - the carnival route is three miles long and there are many activities along the route. By the end of the day you will have walked at least six miles.

Don't if you live in the area sit with a smug grin on your face and never leave you're garden.

Do show some consideration for local residents and their property.

Do bring

- A Carnival Guide - to find out where the activities are located
- Money for food and goodies
- A rag to mop the sweat
- A small rucksack or bum-bag so that hands are free for jumping and dancing - make sure it's securely fastened at all times

Do plan where you're going in advance - it'll save you a lot of time. If you want to follow a Mas band or steel band, head for the Carnival route. Do avoid congested areas.

Don't jump in front of the costumed performers if you are following a Mas band. Wait until they have passed by and join the non-costumed section behind them - each band has one.

Do remember that the carnival floats are large lorries so don't run across their path and do not get too close to them.

Don't jump on or off the floats.

Do go with the flow of the crowd, never against it.

Do keep hold of your children. If you have a child in a pushchair, the best location will be at South Africa Square, where there is room to sit on the grass away from the heavy flow of people.

Don't forget to give yourself a pat on the back if you've enjoyed yourself in true carnival fashion as you'll probably have done the equivalent of 12 hours of aerobics, socarobics, raggarobics or whatever takes your fancy!

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