The Carnival season is in full swing, with parties and fetes happening all over the country. Last weekend, Central and East Trinidad were alive with the sounds of soca, as partygoers jumped, waved, and danced to live performances at various events.
Evolve: A Premium Experience in Chaguanas
On February 1, the Alumni Association of Presentation College, Chaguanas hosted Evolve, its signature Carnival fund-raising event. The premium all-inclusive and cooler fete featured high-energy performances from Kes the Band, Ravi B & Karma, Jadel, College Boy Jesse, and Yung Bredda.
[caption id="attachment_1137575" align="alignnone" width="1024"] Patrons enjoy the music at Evolve: Fete in Love 2025, at the Evolution Garden, Presentation College Chaguanas on February 1. - Photo by Angelo Marcelle[/caption]
Patrons enjoyed the flexibility of choosing between an all-inclusive section or a cooler option while still having an equal view of the action on stage. The event, held at Evolution Garden at the school, was a hit among attendees, with many praising its vibrant atmosphere.
Gateway to the World: A must-go event
As the saying goes, “Who come out, come out, and who don’t come out, miss out.” That was certainly the case at Gateway to the World, a staple on the Carnival calendar. The all-inclusive event featured a star-studded lineup and a feast of culinary delights to satisfy every craving.
[caption id="attachment_1137583" align="alignnone" width="1024"] Full Blown performs at Gateway to the World, Old Piarco Airport Carpark on February 1.[/caption]
Traditional Carnival characters greeted patrons at the entrance, setting the tone for a night of cultural celebration. A revamped stage setup, now facing west instead of north, gave the venue a fresh look. For an elevated experience, the event also introduced VVIP cabanas, which offered premium bottle service and sold out quickly.
[caption id="attachment_1137579" align="alignnone" width="889"] Fans were reminded of the many hits Bajan singer Rupee has, during his set at Gateway to the World, Old Piarco Airport Carpark on February 1. - Photo by Angelo Marcelle[/caption]
The highlight of the night was Bajan singer Rupee, who took the crowd on a nostalgic journey with his classic soca hits. The audience – especially older patrons – relished the reminder of the "Bajan invasion" of the late 1990s and early 2000s. Other performances included Patrice Roberts, Voice, Mical Teja, College Boy Jesse, Ding Dong, Blaka Dan, Shal Marshall, Full Blown, The A-Team Band, and The All-Stars. It was held in the Old Piarco Airport Carpark.
Changes to all-inclusive fetes
It looks like the concept of "all-inclusive" is being diluted, and patrons are noticing the shift. Promoters might be trying to cut costs or increase revenue, but it changes the experience significantly. If people are paying premium prices, they expect premium service – long waits and limited options don’t align with that.
[caption id="attachment_1137581" align="alignnone" width="889"] Zan performs with The A
