Cannabis, fetes, and on the road — a real-life Carnival guide
Carnival in Trinidad and Tobago is not a joke.
It’s heat. It’s music. It’s late nights, early mornings, endless fetes, and long hours on the road. And yes — for many people, Cannabis is part of the experience.
When used intentionally, Cannabis can deepen the music, loosen the body, and help you stay present in the moment. When used carelessly, it can turn a perfect Carnival day into anxiety, dehydration, or burnout very quickly.
With Carnival just 10 days away, now is the time to prepare your body, your mind, and your habits.
Start with intention, not impulse
Before you light up at a fete or on the road, pause and ask yourself one simple question:
“What do I want from this high today?”
Is it energy to keep moving?
A sense of calm in the chaos?
A deeper connection to the music?
Knowing your intention helps you avoid overdoing it. Carnival rewards people who pace themselves.
Dose low and go slow
Heat, crowds, movement, and excitement all amplify the effects of Cannabis. What feels manageable at home can feel intense in a crowded fete or during a long road day.
A smart Carnival approach:
- Start lower than you usually would
- Take one or two pulls, then wait
- Check in with your body before continuing
You can always consume more later. You cannot rewind being too high in a crowd.
If alcohol is also involved, reduce your Cannabis intake even further. Mixing the two hits harder under Carnival conditions.
Hydration is part of consuming responsibly
Cannabis can make you forget to drink water, while Carnival does everything possible to dehydrate you — sun, sweat, movement, and alcohol.
Hydration habits that matter:
- Drink water before you smoke
- Alternate between Cannabis and water
- Include electrolytes (coconut water works well)
- Pay attention to dry lips, headaches, or fatigue — these are early warning signs
If you are not properly hydrated by midday, you will feel it later.
Eat properly — your body needs fuel
Consuming Cannabis on an empty stomach can feel overwhelming, especially on the road.
Try to eat before fetes and road days, and snack throughout the day:
- Carbohydrates for energy
- Salt to replace what you lose through sweat
- Protein to keep you grounded
Food helps stabilise your high and keeps your energy steady.
Be smart about where you smoke
Safety matters, especially when you are high.
Keep these rules in mind:
- Avoid dark alleys and isolated spaces
- Stick to open, well-lit, populated areas
- Stay close to your group
- Trust your instincts — if something feels off, move
Being mindful about where you consume is just as important as how much you consume.
Learn to read your body
Cannabis increases body awareness — use that to your advantage.
You’re in a good place when:
- Your body feels loose and relaxed
- You’re enjoying the music and movement
- You feel present and connected
Slow down if you notice:
- Dizziness or light-headedness
- Racing thoughts or confusion
- Feeling detached rather than joyful
When that happens, stop consuming, hydrate, eat something, and rest in the shade.
If anxiety shows up, ground yourself
Anxiety can happen, especially with heat, crowds, and stimulation.
If it does:
- Step out of the crowd
- Slow your breathing (in through the nose, out through the mouth)
- Drink water and cool down
- Remind yourself that the feeling will pass
Do not smoke more to “fix” anxiety — that usually makes it worse.
Choose your Cannabis wisely
Not all Cannabis is road-friendly.
For Carnival, lighter and more uplifting effects tend to work best. Save heavier strains for after the road, when you can properly rest.
Avoid experimenting with new products or strong edibles during Carnival days. Stick to what your body already knows.
Sleep is part of staying functional
Lack of sleep intensifies everything — including Cannabis.
Even a few solid hours can make a huge difference in how you feel on the road the next day. A clear head is part of enjoying Carnival fully.
Respect the space and the culture
Not everyone wants smoke around them. Be mindful, respectful, and aware that Carnival is a shared experience.
The goal is not just to get high — it’s to enjoy Trinidad and Tobago Carnival safely, consciously, and with good energy.
Final thoughts
Cannabis can absolutely enhance fetes and being on the road when used with intention, hydration, nourishment, and self-awareness.
With Carnival just days away, preparation is everything.
Listen to your body. Pace yourself. Stay present.
Because the best Carnival memories are the ones you actually remember.
Stay High & Stay Safe
Asha & Ayanna Wadada
