Vendors at South Quay, Port-of-Spain cashed in on a steady flow of sales on beverages, snacks and food compared to Carnival 2018.
However, most of the items were not purchased by tourists who were the vendors’ biggest customers in years gone by.
The bulk of the sales on Carnival Monday surprisingly came from masqueraders and spectators.
Just before noon yesterday, scores of spectators who lined the pavement and a the few patrons seated in the covered stand at the South Quay judging point witnessed the crossing of the first band—The Lost Tribe with its presentation Taj.
They were followed by colourful bands Paparazzi, Tribe and Ronnie and Caro as their masqueraders jumped and waved to Kees’ “Savannah Grass” and Machel, Bunji and Skinny Fabulous’ “Famalay” while the police kept a watchful eye on the celebrations.
Spectator Jennifer Abbott said she was surprised at the pace at which the bands flowed.
“It was fast and furious. For a long time I had not seen the bands came so quickly. The bands would pass here after lunch on Carnival Monday. But we were treated to an early presentation.”
Sheltering from the blistering sun under a tent which was stocked with beers, soft drinks, hard liquor and an array of food, vendor Betty Jackson said she saw an increase in sales this year.
“Sales definitely picked up. My biggest customers were not tourists but masqueraders, spectators and even passers-by. It really put a smile on my face. For the day only two tourists purchased drinks from me.”
Another vendor, Lystra Richard, also expressed similar sentiments.
“I can’t complain sales have been good so far. I expect things to improve tomorrow. This in unlike previous years.”
