Bahamian Junkanoo Festival Parade Costume Red Headdress Outfit Dance Masks

Description

Rare vintage Bohemian Junkanoo festival / parade outfit. It features an elaborate headdress with red feathers and gold goddess flames, and includes full body 'shoulder to boots' costume with two hand held staff masks.

Junkanoo is the premier, vibrant national cultural festival of The Bahamas, celebrated primarily on Boxing Day (Dec 26) and New Year’s Day (Jan 1). It features massive, colorful street parades with intricate, handmade costumes, goat-skin drums, cowbells, and energetic, choreographed dancing, typically occurring from midnight until morning in downtown Nassau.

Originating during the 18th century from enslaved Africans, it was a time for them to celebrate during their few days off work, serving as an assertion of humanity and a form of resistance. It is deeply rooted in African traditions. Thousands of people gather in downtown Nassau to watch competing groups (often with hundreds of participants) march in elaborate, hand-crafted costumes made from crepe paper, cardboard, and vibrant materials. The sound of Junkanoo is defined by a loud, pulsating rhythm produced by goat-skin drums, cowbells, whistles, and brass instruments. It is a symbol of Bahamian resilience, and cultural pride, fostering community spirit and unity.

Condition

Good overall, some wear and distressing from age and use, some missing trim pieces.

Dimensions

Headdress - 34" x 8.5" x 34"; Boots are marked 40 which typically converts to a US womens size 9 or 9.5. 10.5" length.