If you’re getting ready for Carnival 2025 in the UK, there’s one event you absolutely need to know about and can’t miss – J’ouvert. J’ouvert is all about a sense of community, has deep cultural roots and is full of colourful moments. The start of Carnival celebrations, J’ouvert brings people of all backgrounds together to dance, celebrate freedom and honour tradition in an unforgettable, joyful way.
Whether you’re a seasoned Carnival attendee or this is your first event, understanding the origins and traditions of J’ouvert adds a deeper meaning to the celebration. We’ve put together everything you need to know about J’ouvert, including where to celebrate and top tips for attending events.
What Is J’ouvert?
J’ouvert, derived from the French words “jour ouvert” meaning “daybreak” or “morning”, is a vibrant street celebration that marks the official start of Carnival, a cultural festival held annually in many Caribbean islands and worldwide. J’ouvert is known for its inclusivity and brings together people of all backgrounds to celebrate freedom, unity and the expression of cultural identity.
What Happens During J’ouvert?
Celebrations begin before dawn, usually between 2-4am, and proceed until the sun has risen. J’ouvert has many traditions and sees participants take to the streets covered in paint, oil, mud and colour powder. Music also plays a big part in the celebrations, and streets are often filled with the beats of steelpan drums, calypso and soca music
Unlike the bright, intricate costumes made of beads and feathers that people associate with Carnival, J’ouvert attire is a lot more simple and is often handmade. Many dress in white or old items of clothing they don’t mind getting messy, as they soon become covered in powder, mud and paint. Some revellers masquerade as devils or traditional characters such as the Jab Jab.
The use of paint, mud and colour powder is one of the most iconic and significant aspects of J’ouvert. It symbolises breaking free from societal norms and embracing the liberating, free spirit of the celebration.
What Is The History Behind J’ouvert?
The roots of J’ouvert stem from African traditions brought to the Caribbean by enslaved Africans. During the French colonial period in Trinidad during the 18th century, French colonisers would hold masquerade balls that slaves were banned from attending. Enslaved Africans were said to have hosted their own mini-carnivals using their own folklore and traditions.
Before Emancipation, Canboulay was celebrated by enslaved Africans with singing, dancing, drums and stick fighting. Following the abolishment of slavery in 1833, Canboulay developed into a festival for freed slaves, celebrated annually.
In 1881 however, the British colonial government in Trinidad tried to ban Canboulay. This resulted in disturbances known as the Camboulay Riots which have played a key role in shaping J’ouvert traditions. It is said that people smeared oil and paint over themselves to avoid being recognised, which has become an iconic tradition of J’ouvert.
When Is J’ouvert 2025?
J’ouvert is celebrated at different times of the year depending on when each country/city holds their Carnival celebrations. In Trinidad and Tobago for example, Carnival is traditionally held before Lent, with J’ouvert occurring on Monday morning and Carnival celebrations culminating on Ash Wednesday.
In the UK however, Carnival festivals tend to happen during the summer months, typically in August, to take advantage of the warmer weather and holiday season. While the timing may differ, the same vibrant spirit, energy and cultural pride can be found on the UK streets.
Where To Celebrate J’ouvert In The UK In 2025
The largest and most well known Carnival celebration in the UK is Notting Hill Carnival. Held in Ladbroke Grove, London, Notting Hill Carnival has taken place since 1966 and attracts over 2 million attendees. This year, Notting Hill Carnival will take place on August Bank Holiday weekend, with J’ouvert beginning at 6am on Sunday 24th. Don’t miss out on their Dutty Mas parade, where spectators can expect to be splashed with bright colour powders and paints!
The biggest Carnival celebration in the UK outside of London can be found here in Yorkshire at Potternewton Park in Leeds. Leeds West Indian Carnival will be held on Monday 25th August, with J’ouvert celebrations usually starting at 6am on the day of.
This year, we’re proud to be supplying our vibrant coloured powder at Dreamland J’ouvert, taking place at Hertfordshire Showground on Saturday, 23rd August. Expect non-stop celebrations, traditional Soca music and of course, bursts of colour everywhere you turn. You can also experience our colour powder for yourself at the Soca vs Dancehall – Taste of Carnival J’ouvert Fête in Sheffield on Friday 22nd August. Get ready for a night of high energy, lots of colour and endless Carnival music.
Tips For Attending J’ouvert
If you’re attending a J’ouvert event for the first time, here are some of our top tips for making the most of the experience.
- Wear Old Clothing – Expect to get messy! With paint, powder and mud everywhere, it’s best to wear old clothes that you don’t mind getting dirty and stained.
- Bring Sunglasses – Keep your eyes protected from all of the paint and throwing powder with a pair of sunglasses that you don’t mind getting messy.
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Wear Comfortable Shoes – J’ouvert events usually last for a few hours in which you’ll constantly be on your feet, walking and dancing with the crowds. Make sure to wear a comfortable pair of shoes that you don’t mind getting a little paint or mud on or a pair that can be easily cleaned.
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Protect Your Phone – With lots of paint, powder and sometimes water flying around, you’ll want to keep your phone protected in a waterproof pouch or ziplock bag.
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Keep Hydrated – J’ouvert is a high-energy event and often takes place in hot temperatures, so staying hydrated is key. Bring water in a covered bottle or cup to keep it clean and free from colour powder.
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Bring A Towel or Spare Change of Clothes – Once the event is over, expect to be covered head to toe in paint and colour powder. Before getting in your car or on public transport, change into a spare change of clean clothes or pop a towel down on any seats to avoid spreading the mess.
- Have Fun – The most important thing is to of course have fun! J’ouvert was created to welcome everyone, no matter their background. Enjoy the music, embrace the culture and get ready to be showered in clouds of different colours!
As you prepare for Carnival 2025, make sure you’re ready to enjoy the full J’ouvert experience, from the community spirit to the bursts of colour and the culture that makes it so unforgettable. Whether you’re heading to a local celebration or planning a full Carnival weekend away, embracing the tradition and vibrancy of J’ouvert is the perfect way to kick things off.
At Ministry of Colours, we’ve got all of the accessories you need to get J’ouvert ready, including plain white t-shirts perfect for getting messy and colourful sunglasses made to protect your eyes. And, if you're hosting a J’ouvert event and are in need of stocking up on some safe, vibrant colour powders, we’ve got you covered with bulk options available in a variety of colours, perfect for parties, parades and festivals. To discuss your event requirements, don’t hesitate to get in touch and let us help you make your J’ouvert event a success.
