Caesar’s Army goes South with In De Paint Dance

With the cancellation of this year’s Independence Day Parade and fireworks display, Caesar’s Army (CA) is fine-tuning plans for the nation’s second-biggest Independence celebration—its signature event, In De Paint Dance (IDPD).

The name itself, a playful spin on the word Independence, captures the event’s jouvert spirit while featuring bold portrayals of the national colours—red, black, and white.

According to CA’s brand and marketing manager, Evelena Bruce-Julien, IDPD has grown into a staple on the Independence calendar, attracting a diverse cross-section of T&T.

Founded in 2006, Caesar’s Army launched IDPD in 2010. The event was traditionally staged at Maracas Bay, north Trinidad, and has been incident-free over the years. While COVID-19 restrictions halted IDPD for two years, it was later shifted to respect the turtle-nesting season, and this year it makes its biggest move yet—to south Trinidad.

On August 31, from 2 am to 8 am, Skinner Park in San Fernando will come alive as thousands of patrons celebrate independence “in all forms and fashion, with pride and joy.”

Though not widely known for corporate social responsibility, CA has consistently aligned its operations with socially and ecologically responsible practices. Protecting the environment remains central to its ethos, alongside fostering connection, community, and innovation.

“IDPD continues to draw about 2,500 patrons each year—people who want to celebrate independence in a joyful, distinctly Trinbagonian way,” Bruce-Julien noted.

One of the event’s defining traditions is the singing of the National Anthem at 6 am. As the Anthem swells, fog machines release bursts of red, black, and white. This symbolic moment has become a highlight of the celebration, often bringing spontaneous cheers and emotional reactions from the crowd. With the cancellation of the official parade and fireworks, anticipation for this patriotic ritual is expected to be even higher this year.

“Caesar’s Army has always sought to create spaces that embody the joy, unity, and spirit of T&T,” said CA founder, Jules Sobion. “We see this event, and everything we do, as an opportunity to connect people and to connect with people.”

Looking ahead to its 20th anniversary next year, CA has also built an international reputation for showcasing and exporting Caribbean culture—from music and food to unique festive experiences.

The move to south Trinidad marks the start of a packed season. On October 4 and 5, CA will host the Street X Food Festival at the Hasely Crawford Stadium, featuring street vendors, chefs, live music, an artisan market, a kids’ zone, and a pop-up fine-dining experience presented by Our Moving Table. Local celebrity chef Brigette Joseph will curate the festival, highlighting traditional favourites and bold new culinary creations while giving food entrepreneurs a platform to shine.

The innovation continues into 2026, when CA’s Bacchanal Army returns to the Carnival Monday road. Launched this year, the all-inclusive, Monday-only mas band offers affordable registration, multiple costume options, and the freedom for female masqueraders to design their own creations.

“Everything we do is about evolution and connection,” Sobion added. “We are proud of and thankful for the support we’ve received over the years and excited about what lies ahead as we prepare to celebrate this milestone anniversary with the people who have made it possible.”

In De Paint Dance 2025 is a premium drinks and breakfast-inclusive paint, powder, water, and foam party.