It's 1 January 2019 and it time for Junkanoo. "Every New
Year's Day a Junkanoo parade displaying breathtaking sights and vibrant
sounds fills the historic streets of New Plymouth, Green Turtle Cay, in
celebration of a new year". This year the parade starts with a
'jellyfish' collecting donations (picture did not turn out) followed by
representatives of local and regional law enforcement.
The crowds are everywhere, including the top
of the old jail. This year has perfect weather with good forecasts for
the people to get back home by golf cart, ferry, or boat (across the
whale to Marsh Harbour and beyond. Due to logistic issues, it rarely
starts on time. This year it was only 30 minutes late.
All ages participate in the parade. Some are smaller than the
smallest drums, while others have the strength to carry heavy costumes or
musical instruments for hours in the sun and heat. It was hot this day
with a light breeze and sunny skies.
The younger participants are mostly from the local
primary school while the older folks work in the settlement or are back
from high school in Marsh or from college in Nassau or elsewhere. This
is really an impressive expression of inclusiveness in the community.
The parade takes a brief hiatus at the Government dock to
soak in some shade and cool drinks. Ann and Yvonne are seen talking
with the lead parade master. He is full of information but they forget
to ask him why he carries a green pepper and a tomato on top of his
staff. (The great picture of Jimmy Mcintosh is from a collection of a
local photographer, Ash Gardiner.)
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