Sugar Mas runs from late November through to New Year's Day, with events happening almost every day. There are calypso competitions where singers perform witty, clever songs; soca music concerts with pounding rhythms that make everyone want to dance; steelpan shows; beauty pageants; and street fairs with food stalls selling all the island's favourite treats — sugar cake, sorrel drink, conkies and more.
The costume parades are the most spectacular part. Groups of participants spend months designing and sewing elaborate, colourful costumes — some with enormous feather headpieces, glittering fabric, or themes inspired by nature, history, or fantasy. On parade days, the streets of Basseterre become a river of colour, music, and movement, with thousands of people dancing together.
Calypso is a style of music that is clever and fun, with lyrics that tell stories, make jokes, and celebrate island life. During Sugar Mas, calypsonians — calypso singers — compete to see who has written the wittiest, most entertaining song of the year. The Calypso Monarch competition is one of the most anticipated events of the whole carnival.
Sugar Mas is deeply important to the people of Saint Kitts. It is a time when families come home from abroad, when neighbours share food and music, and when the whole community celebrates together. Children love it especially — there are competitions and performances just for young people, and the energy and excitement of carnival is something you never forget.