The streets from Serenity Park down to the William Peter Boulevard in Castries were awash with color and exuberance as the Junior Carnival Parade took center stage Sunday. This vibrant event, a key highlight of the Lucian Carnival, saw hundreds of young revellers taking part in a lively celebration of Saint Lucia’s rich cultural heritage. Spectators, including enthusiastic parents and guardians, lined the streets to offer their support, cheering on the young parade participants who danced and twirled their way to the best of Saint Lucia’s best soca hits.
The Junior Carnival Parade serves as a crucial platform for the island’s youth to engage with and uphold the traditions of Lucian Carnival, ensuring that this beloved cultural legacy continues to thrive for generations to come.
Dr. Ernest Hilaire, Minister for Culture and Creative Industries, speaking to Saint Lucia Daily Post at the event emphasized the significance of the Junior Carnival in fostering a sense of pride and continuity among the nation’s youth. “This event is a major part of the Lucian Carnival, reflecting not only the vibrancy of our community but also empowering our young people to continue the legacy and richness of our cultural traditions,” Dr. Hilaire remarked.
Jenella Gaston, President of Saint Lucia Carnival Bands Association (SLCBA) stated, “When you involve the kids at this stage in their lives, it becomes part of them and therefore ensuring that the art form, the culture and festival lives on.”
Tamara Gibson, Chairperson of the Carnival Planning and Management Committee (CPMC), also highlighted the importance of the event in supporting the foundational principles of Lucian Carnival. “We are committed to fostering inclusivity, sustainability, cultural preservation, and responsible enjoyment,” Gibson said. “We saw the Junior Soca artists performing during the parade and for us, it’s the results of the commitment of cultural enthusiasts, parents, teachers, and all other stakeholders focusing efforts on our youth. Our festival is in great hands.”
As the young participants made their way across the stage before the judges this afternoon in William Peter Boulevard, the energy of Lucian Carnival was electric, alive in every step, every smile, and every costume.
The parade featured nine costume bands with more than one thousand revelers.
