The skill of Cayman’s dancers is renowned – as it should be, because the kids start at a young age.
The moves will be out in full force on Saturday, 28 April as it’s Junior Batabano, the traditional curtain-raiser to the main event and in and of itself a fabulously colourful, energetic, fun and family-oriented day of Caribbean magic. The family fun day begins at 1pm at Camana Bay
The carnival takes place from 3 to 7pm. Here’s Batabano doyen Donna Myrie with the details.
“Children will dance and jump along Market Street in a kaleidoscopic parade of colour, music and creativity before wowing the judges on The Crescent. After the parade the fun continues with face painting, mask decorating, snow cones and food stalls,” Donna tells us.
As part of the Cayman Carnival Junior Batabano itself, there’s a song competition which begins at 5.30pm.
“Experience carnival spirit through this annual youth competition showcasing songs performed by entrants ages 12 to 17,” Donna says.
Lots more events
In fact, junior events begin on Saturday, 21 April with the Carnival Mask Making Workshop, which runs from 2.30 to 3.30pm at Camana Bay.
“Children ages 7-10 are invited to create a traditional Carnival mask using natural materials – and wear your creation to the parade,” Donna says. You can register for the free event by contacting Karie Bounds at [email protected].
On Friday, 27 April the appetites are whet even further by the Junior Steel Band Competition, which is again at Camana Bay and kicks off at 5.30pm.
“Steel pan and carnival go hand in hand,” Donna rightly says. “To celebrate the 10th anniversary of Junior Batabano organisers have introduced Pan in a Rage. Come out and take in the musical brilliance and skill of the junior steel bands on the island as they battle it out in this friendly competition. Enjoy a special performance by The Pandemics.”
We sure will. Carnival is for everybody and it begins with the youngsters – the next generation to take the baton of celebrating Caymanian and Caribbean culture.
Upcoming events
Friday, 20 April
Spotts Dock, 9pm
Wednesday, 2 May
Tiki Beach, 7pm champagne reception, 8pm dinner
Thursday, 3 May
RoofTop Lounge, 8pm
Friday, 4 May
Cardinall Avenue, 10pm
Saturday, 5 May
Start time is 3pm
Noon to 6pm
Albert Panton Avenue, George Town, noon to midnight
Friday, 25 May
Spotts Dock, 9pm
BatabaView
Upload your own exciting video coverage to the Cayman Carnival YouTube page for a chance to win an Olympus camera from Cathy Church.
Email [email protected] for more information.
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