Hundreds turned out to see traditional and fancy costume characters at the annual Carapichaima Carnival on Monday.

The event hosted by the Carapichaima Committee had more than 20 bands and several individuals costumed revellers during the parade of bands in the community.

The Carnival in Carapichaima is considered one of the most colourful and energetic in the country.

Most notable were the masqueraders who portrayed the days of the sugarcane harvest in Caroni, a concept brought to life by the band Creative Xpression—with the theme "Once Upon a Time in Caroni".

Minister of Arts and Multiculturalism Winston "Gypsy" Peters attended the Carapichaima parade and said it was an "extravaganza"  event. He said Carapichaima Carnival was the oldest practising Carnival in Trinidad and Tobago and he was impressed with the show.

Works and Transport Minister Jack Warner was also there and said soon the event would outgrow the venue.

Also attending the parade of bands were former Public Service Association president Jennifer Baptiste-Primus, Senator Joan Yuille-Williams and a group of Nigerians. See Page 18