The rich history of Spicemas, the last Caribbean carnival coming up in Grenada

Vieux Corp – Authentic Portrayal

Vieux Corps is French for “dead body”, and the depiction celebrates the end of slavery. According to Carribbean360, Vieux Corps is a “mas of disguise which dates as far back as the pre-emancipation era and is indigenous to Grenada”.

At this event, masqueraders conceal their identity by wearing a gown of the costumes made of crocus bag material or black cotton fabric. This signifies the loss of the identity of the enslaved brought to Grenada from West Africa.

Today, masqueraders wear a mask made of wire mesh and their costumes have become more colorful and creative. Band members also wear heavy clogs made from the wood of the mango tree on their feet while chanting and stomping in accompanying rhythmic fashion.