St Kitts has a very rich culture which is shaped by its past and which encompasses a number of traditions and customs from different countries. This culture shapes the food, dance and music of the island, but most of all can be seen in its carnivals.
One of the biggest carnivals takes place at Christmas time and the costumes, which have evolved over 300 years are a true art form. They include peacock feathered headdresses, fringed aprons, masks and decorations of bangles, ribbons and mirrors, while the dancers show elements of both African and European dance genres.
One of the most exciting things to see are the dancers who dress as Moko-Jumbies, dancing on 6 foot stilts along the parade route. Their exact origin isn't really known; some believe their costumes relate to the African god of vengeance, while others believe it is based around the macaw, which is a very tall palm tree covered in thorns.
Whatever the origin this is a fabulous time to visit the island, especially as it makes a wonderful escape during winter. This carnival is a true celebration which goes on for 40 days from the end of November until the beginning of January and is known as Sugar Mas.
If you can't visit the island in winter, then there is also a music festival in June which was launched in 1996 and since then has been held annually, generally over the last weekend in June. It has become one of the most popular festivals in the Caribbean and features a large range of musical genres.
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