Five Tips for Carnival Road Day
By: Natasha Goodridge
Project Coordinator for Guyana Carnival
Are you ready to play Mas? Here are some helpful tips to make sure you are prepared!
Be Smart About Your Safety
Ensure that you are well rested and hydrated in order to maintain the energy levels required to have fun and enjoy Mas Day from the meeting point to the final lap. It's always summer in Guyana, and the days are hot. Staying hydrated is one of the most important ways to avoid imploding while having fun.
Be vigilant about who is around you. Yes, you are here to have fun and make friends but, its’ safety first. Use the buddy system when you are feting and if you need help, look for the closest security officer for assistance.
Make Sure Your Costume Fits
Analyze your costume as soon as possible to ensure that you know what goes where and how to put your costume together so that you can walk down the street looking and feeling your best on Mas Day.
Wardrobe malfunctions are possible, so avoid them by collecting your costume from the band house early and trying it on, doing a little dance, to ensure everything fits properly.
Pack Your Essentials
We all want to look fashionable, but make sure you pack the necessities for comfort. Replace the stilettos with fudge heels or your favorite sneakers. Fanny packs are a must-have for all of your road day necessities.
Pain relievers, antihistamines, and numbing cream are a must if you insist on wearing stilettos and being on the road all day!
Pre/ Post Drinking
There will be a mega concert featuring Machel Montano, Skillibeng, and Spice, and we expect you to have a great time, but do so wisely. While you know what your body is capable of, be mindful of how much you consume, how you mix your beverage, and who you accept beverages from.
Eat a few solid meals before and during the 'drinking session,' and then sober up with soup or some good ole 'gun-oil.' Coconut water and coffee are great for staying sober in between fetes.
Stick With Your Band
It is important to fete in your band to ensure that you get the full experience and not get lost; soak up the fun and enjoy everything your band has to offer.
Use your road map to figure out where your band is meeting, where their rest stops are, and, most importantly, where the drinks are, since it is Mas Day after all, and we will be there to play.