Big Tadjah Night: Witnessing Hosay in St. James, Trinidad

St. James, Trinidad | 17th July 2024

Big Tadjah Night, one of the key events of the Hosay Commemoration. I've been coming to St. James to witness Hosay since I was very young — flag night, Big Hosay Night, and the procession on the final day as the tadjahs are carried to the sea.

In recent years, I've been lucky enough to be invited by a friend whose family takes part in the commemoration — building their tadjah, praying, and fasting in the lead-up to Hosay. I usually visit their home beforehand and share a meal, before heading out to the main road for Big Hosay Night. I love seeing this observance unfold along the familiar streets of St. James, with people of all backgrounds coming out to witness it.