History & Culture

Traditional Carnival characters emerged from the blend of African, European, and Indigenous traditions that define Trinidad culture. Characters like the Midnight Robber, with his elaborate cape and skull-adorned hat, originated from African secret societies. The Moko Jumbie, a stilt-walker who can see into the future, comes from West African traditions. Dame Lorraine satirizes the French plantation mistresses with exaggerated breasts and buttocks. Other traditional characters include Pierrot Grenade (a scholarly figure who speaks in elaborate French Creole), Jab Jab (devil figures covered in oil or mud), Blue Devils, and Baby Dolls. These characters carry deep cultural meaning and are celebrated in competitions and parades.