First Bahamas Junkanoo Carnival Launches In 2015: Experience Culture

The Bahamas keeps getting better, with an annual Bahamas Junkanoo Carnival launched this year that will draw regional musical acts and revelers in a season of unity and festivity from May 7th — 9th, 2015. Three days of non-stop food, culture, music and dancing are planned for the event, expected to be one of the most colorful celebrations in the region, said the Bahamas National Festival Commission, organizers of the event. “We’re inviting the world to come to The Bahamas and experience one of the most spectacular carnivals in this hemisphere,” said the CEO of the BNFC Roscoe Dames. “There is truly something for everyone at Bahamas Junkanoo Carnival 2015. Lots of diverse entertainment and attractions will be available during the Junkanoo Carnival season and we are excited about showcasing all the Bahamian and multi-cultural activities going on during this time.” Kicking off the festival that Thursday will be Junkamania — a musical concert of orchestras blending Bahamian Junkanoo music with other folk forms such as drumming and dance, on a live stage in Da Cultural Village – the epicenter of activity during the Junkanoo Carnival season 2015.   Throughout the night there will be special guest performances by Bahamian contemporary artist Julien Believe, Trinidadian soca artist Bunji Garlin and soca band Visage.. Friday night, the Music Masters concert–the premiere musical event for Bahamas Junkanoo Carnival - will have top contemporary artists in The Bahamas competing live in front of thousands for a chance to be crowned the Music Master. The song competition will include special performances by Grammy award-winning artists Baha Men and Soca Monarch winner Machel Montano. A top group out of Haiti will also be performing on the historical night. The night’s events will culminate with a Midnight Rush – a Junkanoo rush for the people. On Saturday, thousands of merrymakers are expected to take to the road in a lively and vibrant street parade of costumes and dancing to mark the season. Saturday will also include a taste of Latin America, with a Cuban band flying in to perform as well as soca artists Skinny Fabulous and Olatunji taking to the stage for the grand finale event, where Bahamian music legend Ronnie Butler will make a rare appearance to perform some of his greatest hits.