August 31st of this year marks a big milestone for the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago. It’s the 50th anniversary of the dual nation’s independence. Celebrations have already begun, and are scheduled to continue right up until December 31st. If you’re in the mood to celebrate, any time in 2012 is a great time to visit Trinidad and Tobago. Here’s an overview of at least some of the celebrations that are taking place in this fun and exciting nation.
- The Tobago Heritage Festival. This is an annual Festival that began July 23rd and will continue until August 1st. Experience Tobagonian language, oral traditions, culture, dances, music, environment and their gastronomic treats. The Heritage Festival is accepted as the equivalent of Trinidad’s Carnival, celebrated on the Monday and Tuesday before Ash Wednesday.
- Trinbago Unified Calypsonians’ Organisation’s Lord Brynner 50th Anniversary National Independence Calypso Competition. On August 11th, twenty five calypsonians will compete in the semi-final round of this yearly event. This special anniversary calypso competition is presented as “A Gift to the Nation”. If you appreciate good calypso music, this is a gift that you won’t want to miss. You’ll also be interested in the finals, which take place on August 25th.
- The Iere Theatre Productions. The Iere Theatre Productions Ltd. will be staging a production on August 16th and 17th that will fascinate anyone interested in the history of Trinidad and Tobago. This production features the life and political contributions of Eric Williams, known as the father of his nation and the first Prime Minister of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago.
- Conquerabia Spear and Drum Tattoo 2012. Led by the Trinidad and Tobago Defence Force, this military display takes place at Hasely Crawford Stadium, Port of Spain from August 23 to the 26th. The Defence Force will showcase military marching bands, skills, drills and tactics.
- Red, White and Black Parade. Scheduled for August 30th, this parade celebrating independence will begin at 2pm at Queen’s Park Savannah and proceed to Independence Square. The parade will be accompanied by tassa, steelpan, drums and rhythm sections, and is sure to be a toe-tapping good time.
- A Toast to the Nation. This Independence Night concert on August 31st is free to the public and will feature some of Trinidad and Tobago’s best music and most popular cultural icons. It will be held at Queen’s Park Savannah and will begin at 6pm.
These are just a smattering of the celebrations taking place in August alone. As the temperature is fairly constant year-round, you can expect to find plenty to do from now until December, when the celebration comes to an end. Everywhere you look for the next several months, there will be an exhibit, a concert, a parade, a performance or party. There has probably never been a more exciting time to make a trip to Trinidad and Tobago, so book your trip now!
