Words by Patriche @sexybowsarebest
This year marks the 75th anniversary of Windrush, but what does that mean and why is Notting Hill Carnival so important?
A boat named the HMT Empire Windrush arrived in Britain at the Tilbury docks on the 22nd of June 1948, carrying more than 800 passengers from the Caribbean. This was the first boat of many, that would lay the foundation to the massive post-war Black British contribution. West Indian’s were promised success in exchange for their hard work in transitioning Britain from Second World War destruction into the modern piece of art it is today – whilst paving the way for African and Asian communities who followed centuries after.
Notting Hill Carnival was birthed in the late 50s early 60s, initially as a response to the UK wide racial attacks experienced by West Indians at the hands of the police and the White community, with the Notting Hill race riots and murder of Kelso Cochrane holding immense significance. West Indian’s also wanted to celebrate their Caribbean culture and celebrating elements of home to the foreign land.
Being from the Windrush generation myself, originating from Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, NHC is an important yearly celebration that I cannot miss! Growing up I was fortunate to travel back and forth to Vincy, developing a huge connection with my country, whilst learning my parents and grandparents Windrush journeys. Playing Mas (carnival) in a few Islands and cities: Vincy, St. Lucia, Jamacia, France… has enabled me to delve into my own alongside other people’s Caribbean culture even more.
Each year, the warmup for NHC starts with linking up with friends and family to attend different fetes (parties) and gatherings. New Soca music for the year is released and people are excited about the new tunes that will get played on the road (carnival mas day). This year, I spent carnival friday attending @Kesthebandofficial concert with special appearance from @direalshaggy – What a time!
If you playing ‘Dutty Mas’ to celebrate J’ouvert on Sunday or wearing costume for Mas on Monday, then pick up takes place in the week. It is super fun attending your Mas Band Camp for vibes with your team in prep for cutting up your t-shirt or dressing up on the day.
On Sundays for Dutty Mas, I usually play ‘Jab Jab’ with a Grenadian band @islandmasUK with a big team – It is like a Sunday ritual. I make sure to take off all my jewellery and pull out the most comfortable creps that can withstand 12 hours of jumping around. I have a ‘J’Ouvert crep’ that I use every year and have followed me around the world – the now discontinued Flyknit Racers. They have never let me down!
People in our group each have an allocated duty, a couple people will mix up some rum punch, whilst others are in charge of food snacks which we eat to line our bellies before drinking. We wrap our hair to protect it from the paint & oil, complete make up along with face paint before we head out early Sunday morning via train to meet at the allocated meet up point provided by Island Mas before the float leaves off.
J’Ouvert (pronounced joo-vay) is a significant event in the Caribbean, translating to the dawning of a new day. In the Caribbean, people gather as early as 4am, to party and throw paint in celebration of the start of carnival Monday. Jab Jab is linked to historical emancipation of slavery, celebrating freedom and this is seen in the presentation of revellers who.
After 5 showers, a 2-hour nap and another 5 litres of rum punch is made, we head out again for day 2 – Monday Mas! Whether you are excited for your own costume, seeing how creative bands have got this year or reaching your favourite sound systems, everyone is excited, and the roads are packed!
As I was not playing mas in costume this year, I headed down to NHC in a smaller group for some Mas band watching and could not wait to reach @rampagesound and Four Corners.
This year is the second year for Carnival band @reignmasband with stunning by creative @Vanisha2108 who took the road by storm on Monday. @Mahoganycarnival were also judged first place in both Children’s and Adults Medium Mas Bands this year!
Whilst running through the busy streets, I bumped into Delon, @Bowzauk an artist based in North East London who proudly wore his Jamaican heritage on his chest. Delon expressed that it is important for him attend Notting Hill Carnival as “it is a celebration of his UK Caribbean culture’’. Delon now 36 has been attending NHC since he was a young teenager. Now a parent, feels that it is incredibly important to continue sharing his culture and maintain traditions.
With trainers being such a big love of mine, my eyes are always peeled to catch any fire creps or risky wears as there are always a few willing to wear their best drops to NHC. It is always a pleasure to bump into fellow collectors and the Offspring Community too.
Notting Hill Carnival is an amazing celebration that I believe should not be missed! If you fancy some top tips from your Vincy Girl, here you go:
1. The NHC bands are very supportive and safe. Committing to a Band is a great way to have a safe carnival experience with security included a lot of additional information. I believe you should play in costume at least once in your life! However, if it’s not for you, opt in for t-shirt only.
2. Mobile phone reception is not great during NHC. Have a meeting point with your friends should anyone get lost. Download your maps, sound systems, bands, and route beforehand.
3. Drink safely! Food before alcohol, and don’t forget the water…then repeat!
4. Have fun and feel the music! Carnival is a judgement free zone.
Check out more from Patriche on Instagram @sexybowsarebest
