San Fernando is poised to host an electrifying cultural festival on November 15, as Carib Street becomes the epicenter of music, dance, and artistic expression. The event, titled ‘Culture on Carib Street – 12 Hours of Culture,’ is an expanded version of the annual Children’s Jamboree, now encompassing a broader audience and a diverse array of performances. From 11 am to 11 pm, attendees will be treated to a rich tapestry of indigenous art forms, including pan, kaiso, extempo, soca, chutney, parang, spoken word, and masquerade, all accompanied by the rhythmic beats of engine rooms, tassa, and African drums.
Traditionally held in August, the event has been rescheduled to coincide with San Fernando’s 37th anniversary as a city. ‘This year, we aimed to create an inclusive experience for everyone—children, adults, and all culture enthusiasts,’ said Aquil Arrindel, manager of the San City band.
The day kicks off with a lively children’s program featuring bouncy castles, games, and performances by notable young talents such as Junior Calypso King Xhaiden Darius, dancer Ariella Rishana Jugoon, extempo artist Kevan Calliste, and the Presentation College Drummers. Spoken-word artist Colleen Cleghorn and mas presentations by Cari Vog Kids and Anra Bobb and Friends will also grace the stage.
As the afternoon progresses, the focus shifts to adult performers and renowned steel orchestras. Music aficionados can anticipate performances by 12-time Panorama champions Desperadoes, alongside Siparia Deltones, Tornadoes, Birdsong, Kalomo Kings, and the host band, SanCity. The evening lineup includes extempo maestro Abebele, calypsonians Impulse and Ras Kommanda, soca star College Boy Jesse, Blaka Dan, Chutney Soca champion Daddy Chinee, and the Los Alumnos De San Juan parang band.
Arrindel highlighted the transformation of the venue, with the car park between Presentation College and the SanCity panyard now paved and serving as the main arena. The space will feature two stages, tents, food vendors, and a bar, ensuring a festive atmosphere despite the rainy season. ‘This is a must-attend, entirely free cultural experience,’ Arrindel promised.