Chateaubelair Playing Field was ablaze with excitement on Monday, May 20th, as the North Leeward Carnival launched under the vibrant theme “Revel in the Excitement, Enter the Fete Zone.”
The standout moment of the night was undoubtedly the New Song Competition, where the dynamic duo XO and Ezra clinched victory with their electrifying performance of “Ouuie,” captivating the audience and setting the bar high for the carnival season.The launch event, attended by a large and enthusiastic crowd, showcased a rich tapestry of cultural presentations and fresh musical talent from North Leeward, alongside performances from some of St. Vincent and the Grenadines’ top soca artists.
The evening kicked off with speeches from several key figures, including Minister of Tourism and Culture Carlos James, NLSCO President Elron Lewis, Vice President Nadisha Browne, and PRO Kenville Horne.Kenville Horne welcomed the attendees, emphasizing the organization’s commitment to a safe and memorable carnival. Minister Carlos James lauded the efforts of the NLSCO in organizing the event, highlighting the importance of supporting rural carnivals to ensure their continued success.
He hinted at future collaborations with the Carnival Bands Incorporated to introduce more elaborate masquerade bands to North Leeward, enhancing the local festivities.Elron Lewis, President of NLSCO, echoed the sentiment of safety and enjoyment, urging everyone to participate in making North Leeward Carnival the pinnacle of rural celebrations in SVG. Nadisha Browne provided an overview of the upcoming carnival activities, promising a season filled with excitement and entertainment.The competition for the New Song title was fierce, with performances that had the crowd buzzing.
The seasoned Olo delivered a catchy tune “Bush for Cold,” but it was the youthful energy of XO and Ezra from Petit Bordel that won the day. Their song “Ouuie” resonated deeply with the audience, who responded with thunderous applause and waving hands. The duo’s victory earned them prize money and a season pass to all NLSCO events.The event didn’t just stop at the competition.
The crowd was treated to electrifying performances by leading soca artists like Fligh, Ozarie, Keith Currency, Fonando D Bambooman, Casper G, and Dha D, ensuring the energy stayed high throughout the night.
Looking ahead, North Leeward Carnival promises more thrilling events: a Wet Fiesta on June 1, the Soca Monarch Competition on June 8, Kiddies Carnival on June 9, Nasty in White Jouvert Party on June 14, Jouvert and Street Jump Up on June 15, Brunch Soiree on June 16, and the Tropical Paradise Summer Bliss on August 3.With such a spectacular launch, North Leeward Carnival is set to be an unforgettable experience, living up to its theme of revelry and excitement.