Spice Mas

Everything in Grenada is fiery, including the carnival. Spicemas developed from Mardis Gras celebrations. This was the time when slave masters held their own celebrations on the island, which the enslaved imitated, resulting in certain early traditions that may still be found in Spicemas today. The carnival was established on these customs formed by the enslaved, with rich traditions emerging from their African ancestry, as well as colonial influences and native ceremonies. The Jab Jab festival, which celebrates Grenada's African heritage, is one such custom.

When enslaved Africans witnessed their diabolical owners celebrating Mardis Gras, they would dress up in mocking of them. This practice survived the abolition of slavery, growing into what is now known as the Jab Jab celebration. Spicemas is also heavily influenced by local music. Traditional Soca and Calypso music may be heard around the island, with a sound akin to reggae — it fills the air with traditional Grenadian sounds, with current singers frequently experimenting, "using political commentary and poetry to broaden the potential of Grenadian calypso."

In this way, Grenada's residents preserve their traditions while carving out their own place and forging their own history. Throughout the carnival, visitors will be surrounded by residents dressed in traditional attire, performing traditional songs, and eating traditional food in order to pay honor to their past while also celebrating the present.