Column: Pearman On Carnival In Bermuda
[Column written by Mikaela Ian Pearman]
If you’ve never experienced Carnival in Bermuda, let me say this: it’s not just an event, it’s an energy. A cultural moment. A whole lifestyle for a few magical days where the island comes alive with music, color, and celebration. For me, Carnival isn’t just about the parties, and yes, there are many. It’s about joy. It’s about presence. And it’s about feeling so alive in your skin that you glow from the inside out.
This year’s Carnival in Bermuda was nothing short of magic. And if you’ve ever wondered whether this small island can deliver big energy, let me show you exactly why the answer is yes — and then some.
The Vibe Is the Point
There’s something about Carnival in Bermuda that feels… different. It’s intimate yet electric. The crowds are vibrant, the outfits are a full display of self-expression, and the energy is pure joy. I love how the island transforms. How strangers become friends, how everyone is dancing, how the air feels thick with music and possibility.
You’ll see feathers, sequins, intricate costumes and more body paint than you thought possible and somehow, it all works. The colors reflect the spirit of the weekend: bright, effervescent, unapologetic. It’s the one time of year where over-the-top is the standard, and you feel it in every beat of the soca music pumping from sunrise to sunset.
My Favorite Moments [Because Yes, There Were Many]
Let’s talk about Waves — an epic beach party hosted by Party People at Admiralty House featuring none other than soca royalty Bunji Garlin and Fay-Ann Lyons. It was vibrant, magnetic, and unlike anything I’ve experienced outside of Bermuda. Dancing oceanside in the sun, heat and humidity while these Caribbean legends performed? Pure Carnival magic. Iconic doesn’t even begin to cover it.
Then there was Swizzle at Sunrise by Nova Mas — a perfectly curated experience that blended high-energy entertainment with island elegance. We’re talking specialty cocktail bars, amazing food and a vibe that kept going the whole party.. Soca artists Nailah Blackman and Lady Lava got the crowd excited with their riveting performances while DJ Puffy, Jus Jay, Rigo Suave, Rusty G, and Mista Genius kept the energy up while the crowd danced, drank, and basked in the absolute amazingness of it all. It was a moment.
The Road. The Freedom. The Glow.
Of course, Carnival wouldn’t be complete without hitting the road — and this year I played mas with Nova Mas International, who truly created a premium, beautiful experience. The costume was a dream. The vibes? Impeccable. There’s something deeply liberating about being in the middle of the road, covered in sparkles and glow, surrounded by music, movement and that special kind of Caribbean joy.
And let me just say this — J’Ouvert? Do not miss it. Ever. There’s a gritty, rebellious energy to J’Ouvert that balances the glamour of the road. It’s messy, it’s primal, it’s freeing. You haven’t lived until you’ve danced at dawn covered in paint with 1000+ of your newest friends.
Beauty, Hydration, and a Little Rebellion
I have to shout out the brands that helped keep me together all weekend long:
- Fenty Beauty: My makeup did not budge. I was glowing from the first to the last fete, and I owe it all to products made for Caribbean skin in Caribbean heat.
- Coconut Water — Hydration is a must, and this kept me cool, refreshed, and ready to keep dancing.
- Nova Mas International: Thank you for being my Carnival partner and creating an unforgettable experience.
Should You Go?
Absolutely. And not just because it’s fun, though it is. But because Carnival in Bermuda gives you something rare: permission to be your boldest, brightest self. To take up space. To move with confidence. To celebrate your glow in all its glory.
Follow for the Glow
If this story made you want to jump, wine, and book your flight, you’re in the right place.
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Have you played mas before?! Let me know when and where in the comments.
- Mikaela Ian Pearman is an award-winning content creator, writer, and media personality. She’s the founder of Luxury Rebellion, a digital lifestyle platform for bold women who live fully, indulge deeply, and never ask permission.
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It may be a fantastic event for some, for many of us it is a succession of unnecessary sleepless nights.
Sympathies extended to those, particularly seniors, who are forced to endure the non ending THUMPA THUMPA noise from these party makers.
Karma will catch up with them. Someday they will be old and find the noise distressing. Someday a new generation of noisy party makers will keep them awake all night.
awwwww poor thing, I hope you caught up on your rest.
So why don’t you complain about all the other events that go late into the night of Bermuda?!
How do you know that they don’t ?
Amazing costumes, and all attendees looked to have a blast. Glad to hear that participants enjoyed themselves and spectators got to feel the positive vibes.