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Carnival has been the ultimate celebration of freedom and Caribbean culture for decades. Now more than ever, rap artists, singers, and other celebrities have immersed themselves in the longstanding traditions that have uplifted the festival for nearly two centuries.
Over the years, fans have gushed over island-born artists like Rihanna, Nicki Minaj and Shenseea after they debuted various lavish costumes. They watched singers like Chloe Bailey make people's jaws drop with her elaborate outfits and wild dance moves on the road. Even rappers like Ludacris, Chance The Rapper, and streamer Kai Cenat have experienced the nonstop festivities and parades throughout the Caribbean.
The original Carnival celebration dates back to the 18th century when French settlers, who brought enslaved Africans to Trinidad, celebrated pre-Lenten festivities known as masquerade balls, or “mas.” These events, which involved elaborate costumes and masks, were exclusive to the European elite. Enslaved Africans were inspired by their own cultural and spiritual traditions to create a different version of the celebrations.
After the abolition of slavery in 1834, freed Africans in Trinidad & Tobago openly participated in the festivities for the first time and incorporated elements of African music, dance, and rituals like Canboulay — a celebration of freedom from slavery. As the celebrations spread to other Caribbean islands and countries around the world, Carnival festivals grew into vibrant street parades where masqueraders in extravagant costumes and revelers who love soca, dancehall and calypso music come together to dance and live freely.
Carnival and its pre-events like J'ouvert have been anticipated event in the Caribbean, Africa, the United States, Canada and Europe for decades. Island nations like Trinidad & Tobago, Antigua, Dominica, St. Vincent, and the Grenadines, Martinique, Haiti, St. Lucia, Jamaica and others hold their respective celebrations each year from the early summer months into the fall.
In the U.S., states like Georgia, New York, California, Florida, and others are known for their massive Carnival celebrations. The Miami-Broward Carnival recently celebrated its 40th anniversary with performances from headliner Patrice Roberts, soca artist Lyrikal, and a surprise set from the legendary Machel Montano, who also received the key to the city.
Scroll below to see celebrities like Rihanna, Ludacris and more celebrate Carnival around the world.
Rihanna
Nicki Minaj
Chloe Bailey
Coi Leray & Shenseea
Lady London
Kai Cenat
Ludacris