fp Turks and Caicos

Expected to be bigger and better, Maskanoo 2011 has been officially scheduled for Monday, Dec. 26.

Director of Culture David Bowen says plans for the Turks and Caicos Hotel and Tourism Association event in conjunction with the Cultural and Arts Commission are underway, and fans should get ready to be surprised.

Building on the huge success of the inaugural event last year, preparations have begun for this year’s Boxing Day extravaganza.

Maskanoo was created to showcase TCI’s cultural heritage along with developing a “must do” event for tourists.

The 2010 Maskanoo attracted hundreds to the Grace Bay area to enjoy music, food and fun. Bowen says the organizing committee was thrilled with the success from last year and expects to have an even bigger event this year.

To accommodate more families, Bowen said this year’s event will start earlier at 3 p.m. Music will also be a major part of the event, according to Bowen. Several of the local bands who participated last year have also signed on to entertain again at this year’s event.

“We expect to have an even bigger turnout, and we have a few surprises in store as well,” he said. While he did not want to give away too much, he noted, “You will be surprised to see who will turn up.”

Leading up to this year’s event, Bowen will be hosting workshops for groups and schools who are interested in participating in the parade. Bowen is encouraging students, companies, clubs as well as the resorts to be part of the parade.

“This year we are going green,” he explained. “You don’t have to spend any money,” just use the traditional methods of recycled goods. Most importantly make a mask — “a real Maskanoo is nothing without a mask. This is not a competition, it’s a celebration of Christmas … our culture and heritage.”

Local vendors are also encouraged to sign up for space along the parade route between the Regent Village and Salt Mills Plaza.

Royal Jewels has once again stepped up as sponsor of the event, but the organizing committee is still looking for more support from the business community to ensure the event’s success.

Proceeds from the event will be donated to the Culture and Art Commission.

To book space as a vendor, sign up for the parade or for more information, call 941-5787.