According to the text book "Introduction to Sociology" Culture is defined as all that humans learn to do, to use, to produce, to know, and to believe as they grow to maturity and live out their lives in the social groups to which they belong. Every group has its own specific culture, its own way of seeing, doing, and making, its own traditions. Junkanoo is one of the largest showcases of Bahamian culture. What makes Junkanoo so special for Bahamians? In her book, "I Come To Get Me," Arlene Nash Ferguson says it best: "It became a mirror in which black Bahamians saw the true reflection of their essence, their moods, their feelings and deepest yearnings. It was the home of their soul, whose door they opened briefly, fleetingly, every year.".
What is Junkanoo?.
Junkanoo, a Bahamian national festival is a kalediscope of colour and sound. The rhythmic sounds of cowbells, goatskin drums and whistles, accompanied by an array of brass instruments, create a sweet musical beat that will move you; while brilliantly coloured costumes capture your eye. This cultural highlight takes place on Bay Street in New Providence and other Family Islands during the early morning hours, from 1:00A.M. to 9:00 A.M., on the day after Christmas now called "The Tyrone "Dr. Offf" Boxing Day Parade" and New Years morning called "the Mr. Paul "Diamond" Knowles New years Day Parade". Two float parades have also been added to showcase and judge the lead costumes. They are the "Percy "Vola" Francis float Parade" and the "Winston "Gus" Cooper Float Parade". Junkanoo can also be experienced on many celebrated occasions such as Independence Day and there is also a Junior Junkanoo Parade.
In this paper we will inform you about the various aspects of Junkanoo. The information presented here comes from a number of reliable sources and our own knowledge.
INTRODUCTION.
Junkanoo, The Cultural Festival of the Bahamas.
The roots of Junkanoo can be traced back to Africa.