Today is the first day of Carifesta in Suriname. For weeks this event can be heard all over the radio and announced at all TV stations in Suriname. Everybody seems excited that today is finally here. But truth be told, not all locals actually understand the true meaning of Carifesta. What is Carifesta? Is the investment worth it? These were the questions I got during my conversation with the taxi chauffeur this morning. My answer to him was that I believe it is a step in the right direction towards putting Suriname on the global map.
The academic definition from Carifesta, Caribbean Festival of Arts,is:
CARIFESTA, is an international multicultural event organized on periodic basis by the countries of the Caribbean. The main purpose is to gather artists, musicians, authors, and to exhibit the folkloric and artistic manifestations of the Caribbean and Latin American region
*definition from Wikipedia
This year it will be the second time that it will be hosted by Suriname. Twelve years ago was the first time and nearly nobody noticed its existence until it was over. I only remember the cultural parade with all kinds of artistic carts on the streets with people singing and dancing, but besides that, there was nothing more to it for me.
This year the organization had all kinds of preparations in place. This is the 11th time Carifesta will be held and 12 countries are participating this year. The most remarkable difference of this year's organization is the involvement of all the districts. Events are organized in the whole country, creating possibilities for everyone to get a piece of Carifesta. Just out of my head, I can name several events during 16-25 August:
* Saamaka Marron Museum, where you can get a peak into the culture and heritage of the Marroons. http://www.saamakamarronmuseum.com/
* Nationale Kunstbeurs for the art lovers during the period 16-25 August. This year it is held at the garden of De Surinaamsche Bank, where I have heard is a very beautiful setting and is sure a must see.
* For fashionista's and foodies, there is everyday something going on at GMC also known as KKF
* Thalia, CCS and TBL are places to be for those, who are fond of theatre and movies. Pieces from all participating countries will be presented.
For a better understanding of the different locations, here is a map of the venues:
http://www.carifesta.net/venues/. However, these are the venues in Paramaribo.
Get all hyped up about what there is to do in Suriname during Carifesta, please check the program at: http://www.ewinsi.com/index.php?view=show-schedule
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