Dominica welcomes Carnival 2004

by Paul Charles

Sunday, February 8, 2004

ROSEAU, Dominica: Led by last year's King and Queen, Dominica's 2004 carnival celebrations got underway here on Saturday with a street parade witnessed by hundreds of rain-drenched spectators that included visitors from the Queen Mary 2 which berthed here as part of its inaugural Caribbean cruise. 

The narrow streets of the capital were lined with bystanders as musical bands serenaded defending calypso king De Observer, Miss Dominica 2003 Minerve Lewis and their ''subjects'' with local calypsos and the homemade bouyon music, a fusion of various beats.

Even some of the tourists from the world's largest cruise ship joined their hosts in dancing and filming the lively and colourful event in the inclement weather. 

The opening parade also featured advertising bands, seven Miss Dominica 2004 hopefuls, Miss Teen contestants, flag wavers and gangs decked in traditional masquerade costumes.

At the opening ceremony at Carnival City revellers were addressed by Cabinet ministers, Dominica Festivals Commission officials and the queen contestants. 

Among the major events planned for the local celebrations are the calypso monarch and queen competitions scheduled for February 20 and 21 respectively.

The festivities, which attract hundreds of tourists to the island each year, ends in two days of street jump up on February 23 and 24.

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