In a heartfelt letter to the editor published by Newsday, young professional Allison Chang has publicly commended the National Carnival Commission for creating accessible Carnival experiences through the John Cupid Carnival Village and Flava Food Village at Queen’s Park Savannah.
Chang, representing many young working women with limited disposable income, described her initial hesitation about attending this year’s events due to online complaints about relocation. However, her decision to maintain the annual tradition with friends revealed what she characterized as ‘a refreshing and thoroughly enjoyable experience.’
The free admission event demonstrated remarkable inclusivity, attracting diverse demographics from elders to youth in a genuinely family-friendly environment. Chang highlighted electrifying performances by prominent female soca artists including Destra, Patrice Roberts, and Nadia Batson, who delivered powerful sets to packed, energetic crowds.
Beyond the musical entertainment, attendees engaged enthusiastically with Carnival characters for photographs while actively supporting local vendors. Chang reported multiple visits to the Flava Food Village, noting consistent enjoyment across all occasions.
These complementary venues have successfully created an accessible gateway to Carnival culture within a familiar public space, effectively removing financial barriers that typically exclude budget-conscious individuals and families from full participation in Trinidad’s premier cultural celebration.
The letter serves as both appreciation and validation for the National Carnival Commission’s efforts to democratize Carnival experiences amid economic challenges facing many citizens.