3 Things You Didn’t Know About Grenada Carnival (But Should!)
Hello, hello, and welcome! If you’ve been curious about Grenada Carnival but aren’t quite sure what to expect, you’re in the right place. Maybe you’ve seen the vibrant costumes or the images of people covered in oil online—but trust us, there’s so much more to this festival than meets the eye.
That’s why we’ve rounded up three things you probably didn’t know, but definitely should, if you’re thinking about experiencing Grenada Carnival (a.k.a. Spicemas) for yourself. From parade days to signature traditions, we’ve got the facts that will help you step into Grenada Carnival with confidence.
There’s a Lot Packed Into Two Parade Days
Like some other Caribbean Carnivals, Grenada Carnival stretches the parade across two full days. Parade of the Bands, a.k.a. Pretty Mas in Trinidad, happens on Carnival Tuesday.
And a lot happens before then…
Carnival Monday Means Feteing Morning to Midnight
If the costumes come out on Carnival Tuesday in Grenada, what happens on the other day? Well friends, it all goes down on Carnival Monday.
The day starts off with J’ouvert, typically in the wee hours of the morning. This is where you’ll encounter the iconic Jab Jab, covered in molasses, oil or ash, some wearing their horn adorned helmets as they drag chains, coffins, shopping carts, (and yes) even broken refrigerators down the road.
This is pure theater and spectacle — a striking reminder of Carnival’s rebellious roots and a powerful symbol of resistance and resilience. If you’re feeling daring, you can get in on the action! Just remember, it is J’ouvert, so wear clothes and shoes that you won’t miss if you can’t get the stains out.
After you’ve cleaned up from J’ouvert, it’s time to refuel (and catch a nap…trust us!) before heading out to Monday Night Mas. During Ultimate Spicemas, we did a ticketed all-inclusive event, but there are lots of options. The good? We really enjoyed lighting up the night, literally, with the glow in the dark wands, hats and cups provided by the band, and our own light up visors (which we included in our clients’ Survival Kits).
On Carnival Monday, plan for a full day and night! See why we recommend taking that nap? If you want even more non-stop partying, then you can participate in the Carnival Monday parade during the day, between J’ouvert and Monday night mas.
This is an all-day celebration that leads right into Carnival Tuesday. The concentrated format makes planning easier, but it also means “Carnival energy” comes at you fast and heavy, so be prepared!
It’s Not Just About Pretty Mas
At Grenada Carnival, older traditions live right alongside the modern “pretty mas.” We’ve already talked about the Jab Jab. Another legacy character you should check out is the Shortknee. These are masked, costumed performers who dance through the streets, chanting songs while showering spectators with baby powder.
Together, Jab Jab and Shortknee prove that while bikinis and beads dominate the road on Tuesday, Grenada Carnival still preserves and values the weight and importance of these traditional carnival elements.
Now over to you…
And there you have it! Grenada Carnival is more than just a spectacle; it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience filled with energy, tradition, and pure joy.
One epic Parade Day, a Carnival Monday that takes you from dawn to midnight, and traditions like Jab Jab and Shortknee keep Grenada’s history alive. This mix of high-energy fun and cultural depth is what makes Spicemas unforgettable.
The only question is: Will You be Part of It?
Our Ultimate Spicemas package makes it easy. Here’s what’s included:
- An oh-so-fabulous stay at the all–inclusive Royalton Grenada
- Your costume
- Transportation
- Parties + premium experiences
- On-the-ground support (yes, we’ll be there with you!)
All you need to do is buy your flight, pack, and show up. We handle the details so you can focus on the fun.
👉🏾 Book today and step confidently into one of the Caribbean’s most iconic celebrations — Grenada Carnival.
Have questions about Grenada Carnival? Just leave us a comment below.
Til de next lime,
Team Events by Ashé
About us: Events by Ashé is a company that curates unique and life-changing Caribbean Carnival Experiences and we’re passionate about the Carnival lifestyle. We’re so passionate about Carnival we created Ultimate Trinidad Carnival, Ultimate Crop Over and Ultimate Spicemas to share these experiences with hundreds of clients around the world. Visit our website or click the links below to learn more!