Junkanoo is a national festival in Bahamas. It is celebrated during Christmas. People dress in colorful costumes to participate in dance and parades while celebrating the festival

3. Junkanoo is one of the
major attractions in
Bahamas. This national
festival is held during
Christmas and features
music, dance and parades.
There is also a museum
housing costumes, art and
artifacts in Nassau.

5. The origin of the festival is not clearly known. Some believe that the name
Junkanoo comes from the French "L'inconnu" which means the unknown. This
may be correct as the paraders wear mask to cover up their faces. It could also
mean "junk enough;" or "John Canoe”, in reference to the name of an African
tribal chief. He felt that he should celebrate with his people even after coming to
the West Indies as a slave. It was said to start in the 16th or 17th century

7. It is a colourful festival. If you venture out to Bay Street you will
get a good idea how colorful is it. You may find people dancing and
enjoying themselves in colorful costumes and holding intricately
designed banners.

9. Troupes participating in the parades get their costumes designed based on a
theme. The setroupes also have an opportunity to win thousands of dollars for
the best costume. Costume designs are not unveiled until the participation day.
All are invited to participate in the merry making

10. Christmas in Bahamas is not complete without
Junkanoo