Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
plan their costumes; and mocko jumbi troupes
(stilt-walkers) compete for the right to strut their stuff at the
grand finale parade. You can attend these tryouts.
The week's events leading up to the adult parade include
concerts, raffles, a children's parade, boat races and an in-
ternational calypso tent which draws troupes from other is-
lands, notably Trinidad. Tickets to events at the Lionel
Roberts Stadium (near Bluebeard's Hill) run under $10.
The adult parade on the final Saturday wends its way
through downtown streets lined with revelers. It's led by the
newly crowned and regally garbed King and Queen of Carni-
val on their 17-ft. stilts, garishly costumed and covered with
mirrors.
j
“Mocko” means make-believe and
“jumbi” means spirit or ghost in West
Indian patois.
They are followed by steel bands and dancing contingents.
All are costumed in gaily colored ensembles which represent
a theme. The Gypsy troupe, which has been in every Carni-
val, has depicted Mexico, Egypt and Tales of Scheherezade.
The troupes, supported and financed by local merchants, are
judged and prizes are awarded.
The Carnival food fair assembles in Market Square, and the
smorgasbord consists of West Indian specialties prepared
the way Grandma made'em. Roast pork, pates, fried fish,
plantains, roasted goat and johnny cakes are just a sample
to whet your appetite.
The grand finale is a fireworks display over the harbor. It's
spectacular.
Orientation
St. Thomas' 32 square miles (13 miles long and
three wide) make it the second-largest of the US
Virgin Islands (St. Croix is larger). It is the seat
