J'ouvert

J'ouvert is a lively pre-dawn celebration marking the start of Carnival in many Caribbean cultures, particularly in Trinidad and Tobago. Originating from French and African traditions, it features music, dance, and vibrant costumes, often involving the playful splashing of paint, mud, or oil. Participants, called "masqueraders," revel in the spirited, communal atmosphere, expressing cultural history and identity. J'ouvert symbolizes freedom, joy, and resilience, serving as an energetic kick-off to days of festive parades and celebrations that showcase regional heritage and creativity.