Hosay

Hosay was brought to Trinidad by Indian indentured laborers starting in 1845. It commemorates the martyrdom of Imam Hussein and his brother Hassan, grandsons of the Prophet Muhammad, at the Battle of Karbala in 680 AD.

The observance is marked by the building of elaborate tadjahs (ornate tomb replicas) that can reach up to 30 feet tall. These are paraded through the streets accompanied by the hypnotic rhythms of tassa drumming.

The 1884 Hosay Massacre: On October 30, 1884, British colonial authorities opened fire on a peaceful Hosay procession in San Fernando. 22 people were killed and over 120 wounded. It remains one of the bloodiest events in Trinidad's colonial history, yet most Trinis have never heard of it.

• Massive, colorful tadjahs (tomb replicas) carried through streets
• Hypnotic tassa drumming that you'll feel in your chest
• Processions over multiple nights leading to the final day
• Moon dancers in elaborate costumes
• Solemn atmosphere mixed with communal gathering

Best viewing: St. James, Port of Spain (largest observance)
Also in: Cedros, Couva
Timing: Processions happen after sunset
Getting there: Parking limited in St. James; consider taxi
Food: Street vendors sell doubles and other local food nearby