PORT-OF-SPAIN, Trinidad (AP) — The twin-island nation of Trinidad and Tobago came to a virtual standstill Tuesday as the Caribbean territory approached the peak of its world-renowned two-day carnival celebration.
However, this year’s festivities — often called “the greatest show on Earth” — confronted significant financial challenges as escalating expenses have priced out an increasing number of local residents from joining the celebration.
Premium event passes reached nearly $700, while outfits for popular masquerade groups exceeded $2,000.
Recognizing these climbing costs, educators and artists are developing innovative approaches to make the carnival accessible to locals, whose ancestors were enslaved people prohibited from taking part in such celebrations.
Joshua Lamorelle, who visits low-income neighborhoods to provide complimentary stilt-walking instruction, explained: “It is giving the kids an opportunity to be a part of something that is very hard for them to afford.”
Just days before educational institutions and workplaces closed for the major carnival street procession that started Monday, Lamorelle offered students their final coaching session. He watched as 11-year-old Kanye Simmons positioned himself on a wall and fastened stilts to his legs before a youth parade.
For Simmons, stilt-walking has become his preferred activity, surpassing even video games: “I find it’s very educational, and it’s very fun.”
His mother, Chrisann Clarke, expressed appreciation for Lamorelle’s efforts to teach young people about their nation’s traditions and carnival origins. She also felt thankful that her son could join the parade without the typical payment requirement.
“It’s actually great, because most parents are unable to afford it,” she said.
The Trinidad and Tobago carnival takes place during the two days before Ash Wednesday — known as Carnival Monday and Tuesday. While not officially recognized as national holidays, tens of thousands of participants wear elaborate costumes for the street procession.
These festivities trace back to the 1700s, when French colonists introduced the celebrations to the islands while preventing African slaves from joining. During the 1800s, formerly enslaved Africans clashed with British authorities who attempted to ban the festivities.
The carnival has since transformed into a major cultural event and economic driver, providing jobs for thousands while generating millions in tourism income.
As ticket and costume prices continue climbing, soca artist Kimba Sorzano developed an inventive method to promote his latest carnival music.
Using his minibus, called a “maxi taxi,” he provides complimentary transportation to riders who agree to listen to his songs throughout their journey.
This marketing strategy gained such popularity that local fast-food establishments joined in, providing free morning meals during the commute.
“Some people got priced out of the carnival, but at the same time we are the carnival,” said Sorzano, who maintains that carnival’s authentic spirit resides within the people of Trinidad and Tobago.
Other performers are also sharing carnival joy without charge. Vocalist Patrice Roberts hosted a free soca concert in late January that attracted over 10,000 attendees.
Recognizing the financial struggles affecting families, Roberts stated in a social media video that she understood “not everyone can indulge” this year.
“This is for all the faithful fans, families and for anyone who still wants to feel the magic,” Roberts said.
Lamorelle maintains that increasing access to carnival and other cultural elements of Trinidad and Tobago enhances people’s quality of life.
“Anything to make the youths better and have a better vision on culture is what I am going for,” he said.
This year, Lamorelle established a children’s carnival masquerade group, funding most expenses himself with assistance from several sponsors.
This represents a valuable chance for a nation of approximately 1.4 million residents whose jobless rate increased to 4.8% in the third quarter of 2025, up from 3.8% the previous quarter, based on recent government statistics.
Officials have implemented new taxes and raised various fees since taking office last April. This has resulted in higher consumer prices and employment losses, with some business owners reporting they were compelled to close their operations.
Lamorelle receives backing from residents in Valencia, a small community in northeastern Trinidad.
“He’s doing wonderful work in the community because he has the children more occupied than just loitering and doing nonsense,” said Nakita De Verteuil, whose two children participate in the group.
Her son, Josiah De Verteuil, who performed as a “midnight robber” on four-foot stilts, considers Lamorelle a role model.
“He is a very lovable person,” the 17-year-old said. “And to children, he is one of the best influencers.”
