It is a common assumption that carnival traditions were brought to colonies in the New World by Europeans. It is partly true of course, but the inspiration flowed even stronger from another part of the world. When looking at today’s street carnivals it is quite clear that ancient African traditions have had a very strong influence. The history of the carnival can be viewed from different angles, but one thing is sure: it is a result of a cross-cultural exchange that started centuries ago



Most summer carnivals however seems to have other roots even further back in time and from another continent. Listen to the rhythms; view the colourful the street parades, the masks and feathers – this can all be traced back to ancient African festivals, of which many are still being celebrated. Similar ideas seem to have evolved in different parts in the world: an event that breaks the daily life with music and costumes. Like in Europe, the festivities originated from religious events, celebrations of harvest or in honour of spirits and ancestors. Where European masks often were meant hide a person’s identity, the African masks have another purpose: to represent and bring alive some kind of spirit.