00:00The John Cupid Carnival Village burst to life at its official opening, celebrating the color, creativity, and the cultural traditions of Trinidad and Tobago's Carnival.
00:19From blue devils and mocojumbies to midnight robbers and chutney dancers, patrons were treated to a rich cultural showcase that delighted the senses.
00:30But this year's opening came with a notable change.
00:34For the first time, the Carnival Village has been relocated from its traditional spot at the Queen's Park Savannah.
00:40Addressing patrons on Friday night, National Carnival Committee Chairman Peter Carnhai attempted to explain the decision.
00:46His comments, however, were met with boos from sections of the crowd clearly unhappy with the new location.
00:54You will notice right off the bat that we are doing things differently this year.
01:00For starters, we have moved the village to this space, from along the drag, to a new home that you will see is even more convenient, more accessible, more spacious than before.
01:19But we hear you, so we will consider.
01:32Despite the reaction, Carnhai maintained that the move brings improvement and enhances the overall experience.
01:38Here in this new home, whether you are a long-time patron or here this year for the first time, you will also quickly notice that the quality of the village has also increased dramatically.
01:53He also outlined a longer-term vision for the Carnival Village, calling on patrons to support its continued growth.
02:09This year's Carnival Village continues to add value as a mainstay in the Trinidad and Tobago Carnival.
02:17And we will need your help, ladies and gentlemen, to spread the word as we take the Carnival Village to an even bigger and higher growing in 2026.
02:26Although Minister of Culture Michelle Benjamin was in attendance, she did not address patrons on opening night.
02:33Some patrons raised concerns about logistical challenges at the new venue.
02:37Several told the media that accessing food while enjoying live performances was less convenient than in previous years, an issue they hope the NCC will address.
02:49The Carnival Village is expected to welcome hundreds of primary and secondary school students in the coming weeks, helping to keep the nation's cultural heritage alive for the next generation.
03:00With the morning activities for children and evening concerts, organizers say the John Cupid Carnival Village offers something for everyone this Carnival season.
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