Vieux-Fort, St Lucia: After a hiatus since 2019, the pulse of Carnival beats again in Vieux-Fort. Adam Evans, the band leader of Phoenix Carnival Band, announced yesterday that this year’s festivities will take the form of a dynamic “One Day T-Shirt Unity Jam.” Despite facing various challenges, organizers are determined to inject the spirit of Carnival back into the community.
In a statement to Loop News, Evans emphasized the importance of maintaining the vibrant cultural tradition in Vieux-Fort. “We just want to keep the carnival vibes alive in Vieux-Fort. We are pushing to make it happen. Vieux-Fort is not dead,” he declared, highlighting the resilience of the community amidst adversities.
Addressing concerns about safety, Evans urged Vieux-Fortians not to let crime deter them from enjoying the festivities peacefully. “Everywhere in St Lucia, there is crime,” he acknowledged, stressing the need for unity and vigilance among residents.
Reflecting on the logistical hurdles of organizing such an event, Evans underscored the importance of collective support. “Holding events such as carnival is very challenging and can even be very frustrating,” he admitted, calling on the business community and authorities to rally behind the initiative.
With anticipation building, Evans revealed that approximately four bands are expected to participate in the event, promising an array of vibrant performances and colorful displays.
However, amidst the excitement, concerns about security loom large. Evans appealed to the authorities to prioritize Vieux-Fort during the festivities and ensure adequate security measures are in place to safeguard participants and spectators alike.
The decision to condense Carnival into a single day stems from various factors, including time constraints and logistical challenges. Nonetheless, organizers are confident that the condensed format will still capture the essence of Carnival and provide a platform for cultural expression and community solidarity.
As preparations kick into high gear, Vieux-Fortians eagerly anticipate the return of Carnival to their streets. With the promise of a vibrant celebration and a renewed sense of pride, the “One Day T-Shirt Unity Jam” serves as a beacon of hope and resilience for the community.
As the countdown to Carnival begins, all eyes are on Vieux-Fort, ready to embrace the joyous rhythms and colorful festivities that define this beloved tradition. In the face of adversity, the spirit of Carnival shines bright, reminding us of the power of unity, culture, and celebration.
This article was created using automation and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members