Tobago Festivals, Carnivals and Goat Races.

Get ready to par-teeee!

Although it is finding itself echoed increasingly on Tobago , Carnival is essentially a Trinidadian phenomenon. Carnival was born in Trinidad in the late 18c when catholic settlers from France feasted and held masquerades before Lent. The internationally known two-day celebration begins the Monday before Ash Wednesday with "J'ouvert", the wild and extravagant opening ceremony.

Carnival is a riot of flamboyance and is, to be fair, best enjoyed by adults and older families. The excitement culminates on the Monday and Tuesday preceding Ash Wednesday so bear this in mind when planning your trip. Prices can rocket and accommodation is at a premium in Trinidad . However by using Tobago as your base, you can take a 20 minute fly to Trinidad for US $34 return, see the spectacle that is Carnival and then relax and 'lime' back in Tobago afterwards.

Unlikely as it may sound, these are Tobago's answer to Trinidad 's Carnival in terms of preparation, anticipation and all-out fun! The Buccoo Goat Races are run on Easter Tuesday, after a weekend of feasts and parties throughout the island.

Race goats, sporting the most amusing and improbable names, are prized by their owners and 'jockeys' and complete a fast and erratic course to either victory or ignominy (but never the cooking pot).

The Crab Races are by their very nature a little less serious - and well worth a peek!

29 June is the Day of Saint Peter, the patron saint of fishing, and celebrations are held island-wide to honor Tobago 's fishermen.

For 2 weeks in July, the Heritage Festival showcases Tobago 's culinary, musical and oral traditions with 'Ole Time Weddings', speechbands, 'mas' players and an abundance of tempting food and haunting music.