Junkanoo in The Bahamas

   Cowbells clang. Drums keep a steady salvo. Whistles 'fweet'. Trombones and tubas join in the parade. In time with these throbbing musical rhythms, fancy dancers wave their arms and twirl. I gesture with the camera, smile and move in close. 

    Tonight is Junkanoo. The parade dances through Governour's Harbor, on the island of Eleuthera. On Eleuthera, in Nassau and other islands, Junkanoo Festivals reflect the heart of Bahamian culture. 

    Governour's Harbor has a group called the Harbor Boys. They kindly shared their skills and told me they begin making costumes and floats a year in advance. The Harbor Boys compete with visiting groups across Eleuthera island such as the Savannah Sound Lucayans, Harbour Island’s Barracks Hill Warriors, New Vision from Rock Sound. 

   TIPS: 1. Before photographing kids in public, I always ask parents for permission first. 2. Try to go to Junkanoo parades in person, even if you have to wait awhile. During our current 2022 covid pandemic, there will be virtual events online, but wait until you can be there on the street, to feel the beat and soak up the spirit!  
    

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