‘Grenada, the “Isle of Spice,” comes alive every August for Spice Mas, an explosion of Caribbean culture, music, and tradition. Rooted in history, this festival is a vibrant fusion of African, European, and Indigenous influences, celebrating freedom and expression through its unique events. One of the most defining aspects is Jab Jab, a rebellious, primal, and electrifying experience that embodies Grenada’s resilience and rich past.
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The Start of the Carnival Adventure
We arrived in Grenada and checked into our Airbnb in Lance Aux Epines, a peaceful location with stunning views of Lance Aux Epines Beach. With a supermarket, coffee shop, and convenience store nearby, we were set for the adventure ahead.
With just enough time to settle in, we dressed for the first event: Soca Monarch—the gateway to the sound and heartbeat of Grenadian culture. This electrifying competition features two categories: Groovy Soca, with its smooth, melodic rhythms, and Power Soca, designed to send crowds into a frenzy. Thousands of fans waved flags, jumped in unison, and let the bass take over. More than just a contest, Soca Monarch set the tone for the days ahead, highlighting the best of Grenadian talent.
Soca, Sunshine & Sailing on the Harbour Master
The next morning, we boarded the legendary Harbour Master for Strut, a premium boat party from 9 AM to 2 PM. The event delivered:
✅ Non-stop Soca music
✅ A breathtaking cruise along Grenada’s coastline
✅ Delicious breakfast and bottomless drinks
✅ Dancing under the Caribbean sun
If you ever go to Spice Mas, a boat party is a must—there’s nothing like feeling the ocean breeze as you wine to the pulsating rhythm of Soca!
Absolute WORST costume collection experience but we didn’t let it ruin the day!
After an afternoon break, we headed to Pure White in the Moonlight, a breathtaking all-white affair set under the stars. This event started at 10 PM on Saturday and carried on until 12 PM on Sunday. We arrived at midnight, ready to immerse ourselves in the high-energy performances and electrifying atmosphere.
The journey there was an experience in itself—a two-hour drive through Grenada’s lush countryside, winding past villages before reaching La Poterie, St. Andrew. From there, we walked through buzzing streets lined with vendors selling flags, rags, and ice-cold drinks, adding to the anticipation.
Inside Moonlight City, DJs like Mad Russian kept the energy soaring. As dawn approached, the excitement for J’ouvert morning began to build. This wasn’t just a party—it was the perfect prelude to the nonstop revelry of Spice Mas.
After finally getting some rest, we made our way to Brunch & Soca, Havana Jab at 4 PM, the perfect fusion of food, music, and vibes. The relaxed, open-air setting offered a spread of local delicacies like saltfish and bakes, grilled meats, and tropical fruit platters.
As the sun set, the atmosphere transformed. What began as a casual gathering quickly became a high-energy Soca party. Drinks flowed, waistlines moved, and the rhythms of Spice Mas took over, making this the perfect way to transition from day to night.
The Jab Jab Experience & Mas Madness
The moment we had been waiting for—Jab Jab time. Starting from 2 am, trucks lined the streets of Grenada came alive with Jab Jabs blackening their bodies with oil, charcoal, or even paint, transforming into spirits of rebellion. Their chains clanking, and the deep, echoing sound of conch shells signaling the start of something primal and untamed. Flames flickered through the darkness as fire breathers took center stage, using Bagon insect spray to shoot bursts of fire into the air, adding an almost mythical quality to the already hypnotic scene.
With drums pounding in an unrelenting rhythm, I surrendered to the chaos—dancing, shouting, and feeling the weight of history in every movement. Jab Jab is more than just a parade; it’s a living, breathing testament to the island’s past. It symbolizes defiance, a celebration of resilience, and an unapologetic display of freedom. There were no rules, no judgments—only raw, unfiltered expressions as we moved through the streets, drenched in oil, under the rising sun.
12PM - 5PM
As the Jab Jab madness faded, we transitioned into Monday Mas, our Monday wear provided by the band, a more laid-back, yet equally thrilling part of the carnival. Masqueraders swapped their oil and chains for casual wear, forming a sea of color as they took to the streets, still high off the energy of the morning. Trucks blasting Soca music led the way, with revelers dancing non-stop, drinks in hand, and feet barely touching the ground.
7 PM - 2 AM
As the sun dipped below the horizon, the streets of St. George’s transformed into a glowing spectacle of neon lights, LED costumes, and flashing accessories. Monday Night Mas was unlike anything else—a mesmerizing sea of light and movement, with masqueraders dressed in glow-in-the-dark outfits, waving neon wands and LED-lit headpieces that illuminated the night.
The oil and neon of the past two days were replaced with a spectacle of vibrant costumes, intricate headpieces, and flowing feathers as masqueraders transformed the streets into a moving masterpiece of color and culture. From 11 AM, the roads of St. George’s pulsed with the energy of thousands of revelers, each adorned in dazzling designs of sequins, beads, and elaborate plumes that swayed with every movement.
Before stepping onto the road, we indulged in a hearty breakfast spread to fuel the hours of nonstop dancing ahead—saltfish and bakes, cocoa tea, and fresh tropical fruit. Along the route, two designated lunch stops provided much-needed refueling, offering everything from pelau and macaroni pie to jerk chicken and callaloo.
Funtastic Tubing & Monkey Encounters
After days of nonstop revelry, we took a well-deserved break and headed to Grand Etang Lake for some relaxation and adventure.
✅ Funtastic Tubing down the river, soaking in Grenada’s lush tropical scenery
✅ Meeting the famous Mona monkeys and taking unforgettable pictures
✅ Enjoying a moment of serenity before heading home
Despite the costume drama, Spice Mas 2024 was an unforgettable experience. From Jab Jab’s rebellious energy to boat parties, moonlit fetes, and the magic of Pretty Mas, Grenada’s carnival is unlike any other.
Tips for Spice Mas First-Timers:
✅ Book your accommodation early – Lance Aux Epines was a perfect location.
✅ Prepare for Jab Jab – Wear old clothes and embrace the mess!
✅ Stay hydrated – The partying is non-stop, and the Caribbean sun is no joke.
✅ Choose a reliable band
✅ Immerse yourself in the culture – Spice Mas is more than just a party; it’s history, rebellion, and celebration all in one.
Would I do it again? Absolutely! Spice Mas is a reminder that life is meant to be lived in full color, full energy, and full freedom.
Have you ever experienced Jab Jab or Spice Mas? Let’s talk in the comments! 🔥🎭🇬🇩