St Lucia Carnival 2009
 

Has anyone participated in Carnival? We are returning to St Lucia this summer and have chosen to go during the last two weeks of Carnival so that we might witness and hopefully join in some of the Mas Band Parades, etc. I've heard that visitors are welcome to 'jump in', but would really love to do so in costume...any ideas on how one would go about starting the process from the States prior to our trip?

Wow...that will be nice to go and enjoy the local culture. I have friends there. John and Caroline of Serenity might be willing to help you with this. Call them toll free at 1866 766 0794.

Thanks, Sunnybee! It was very kind of you to offer that contact information. I've found that a local resource is always great to have at hand. Your help is appreciated :)

Most of the bands this year are offering online registration to accomodate overseas revellers. I am jumping with Red Unlimited the costumes are beautiful and my sis who played with them last year gave rave reviews

http://luciancarnival.com/content/carnival-bands
this page has a list and websites for most of the major bands

Thank you, Zannalyn - since my last posting I've been in contact with a friend in Castries also suggested the lucian carnival.com site, and it was very useful - thanks for the great tip (and you're right, Red Unlimited's costumes are beautiful!). We've been given some super advice/contact info/etc., and are grateful for it all.