With each new group of immigrants adding its own touch, Carnival blossomed into a nationwide party, with calypso and steel pan music reflecting the country's multi-ethnic nature. Carnival today includes influences from all creeds, races and classes and has spread beyond the shores of this twin island nation. Although the actual Carnival takes place two days before Ash Wednesday, preparation is a yearlong process for many. By the end of the previous calendar year, an atmosphere of excitement and anticipation has set in. Costumes must be designed and music written and recorded.
Steel bands practice nightly in yards.
Some people may not get a proper night's sleep for months on end. All for the sake of the Greatest Show On Earth. Band launching fetes are held to show costumes designs to prospective revelers. The technology of the Internet has resulted in mas' band websites that allow masqueraders to browse and buy costumes from around the world. Of course the best part of the fun is actually wearing them in the Carnival parades on the streets of the country.