festivites
Trinidad and Tobago celebrates several festivities and holidays throughout the year, some of which are:
1. Carnival: This is the most popular festival in Trinidad and Tobago, celebrated annually before the start of Lent. It involves colorful parades, lively music, and elaborate costumes, with the main event being the two-day parade of bands on Monday and Tuesday. Carnival is celebrated in February or March and takes place in Port of Spain, San Fernando and other cities throughout Trinidad and Tobago.
2. Divali: Also known as the "Festival of Lights," Divali is a Hindu holiday that celebrates the triumph of light over darkness. It is usually celebrated in October or November and is marked by the lighting of diyas (clay lamps) and fireworks. Divali is celebrated in homes and temples across the country, with the largest celebration taking place at the Divali Nagar site in Chaguanas.
3. Eid-ul-Fitr: This is a Muslim holiday that marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan. It is celebrated on the first day of Shawwal, the tenth month of the Islamic calendar. Celebrations include special prayers, feasting, and gift-giving to family and friends. Eid-ul-Fitr is celebrated in mosques and homes throughout Trinidad and Tobago.
4. Christmas: As in many other parts of the world, Christmas is celebrated on December 25th in Trinidad and Tobago. The holiday is marked by church services, family gatherings, and gift-giving. In addition to traditional Christmas decorations, many Trinidadians also decorate their homes and streets with colorful lights and parang music can be heard all around the country.
5. Emancipation Day: August 1st marks the anniversary of the end of slavery in the British Empire. Emancipation Day is celebrated with cultural events, speeches, and ceremonies held throughout the country. One of the most notable events is the reenactment of the Canboulay Riots, which played a significant role in the emancipation movement.
6. Indian Arrival Day: Celebrated on May 30th, Indian Arrival Day commemorates the arrival of the first East Indian indentured laborers to Trinidad and Tobago in 1845. The holiday is celebrated with cultural events, parades, and traditional Indian music and dance performances.
Overall, these festivities and holidays reflect the diverse cultural heritage of Trinidad and Tobago and are celebrated with enthusiasm and joy throughout the country.
seasons
Trinidad and Tobago generally experiences two tourist seasons:
1. High Season: December to April - This is the peak season for tourism in Trinidad and Tobago, with an influx of visitors during the winter months. The weather is generally dry and sunny during this time, making it perfect for outdoor activities. It's recommended to book accommodations and activities well in advance due to high demand.
2. Low Season: May to November - This is the off-season for tourism in Trinidad and Tobago, with fewer visitors compared to the high season. The weather during this period can be wet and humid, with occasional hurricanes from August to October. However, prices for accommodations and activities are usually lower, making it a good time for budget travelers. It's recommended to check weather reports and plan accordingly if traveling during hurricane season.
visa
Here are some special visa rules for citizens visiting Trinidad and Tobago:
1. Visa-free travel: Citizens of certain countries, including the United States, Canada, and most European nations, do not require a visa to visit Trinidad and Tobago for stays of up to 90 days.
2. Visa-required countries: Citizens of some countries, such as India, China, Russia, and Nigeria, require a visa to travel to Trinidad and Tobago for any length of stay.
3. Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA): Citizens of some countries, including Brazil, Colombia, and Venezuela, are required to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) prior to traveling to Trinidad and Tobago. The cost of the ETA is approximately $20 USD.
4. Other visa requirements: Depending on the purpose of your visit, you may be required to provide additional documentation, such as proof of accommodation or a return ticket. The cost of a visitor's visa is approximately $100 USD.
Please note that visa requirements and costs are subject to change, so it's important to check with the Trinidad and Tobago embassy or consulate in your country for the most up-to-date information.
souvenirs
Some popular souvenirs to buy from Trinidad and Tobago include:
1. Steelpan drums - prices vary depending on the size and quality, but expect to pay around $100 USD for a small one. You can find them at specialty music stores like Panland Trinidad Tobago or The National Academy for the Performing Arts.
2. Handmade jewelry - prices range from $10 to $100 USD, depending on the materials used and the intricacy of the design. You can find these at local markets such as the Green Market in Port of Spain or at craft stores like Native Spirit.
3. Local spices - prices vary depending on the type of spice and quantity, but expect to pay around $5 to $15 USD per pack. You can find these at local grocery stores like Massy Stores or specialty food shops like House of Jaipur.
4. Carib Brewery products - prices vary depending on the product, but expect to pay around $2 to $10 USD per bottle or can. You can find these at most convenience stores and supermarkets throughout Trinidad and Tobago.
5. Hand-painted ceramics - prices vary depending on the size and complexity of the design, but expect to pay around $20 to $50 USD per piece. You can find these at art galleries like The Art Society of Trinidad and Tobago or at artisanal shops like The Little Carib Gift Shop.
Note that prices may vary depending on where you buy these items and whether you choose to haggle.
If you have 1 week
Alright, let's create an unforgettable one-week itinerary for you in Trinidad and Tobago! Here are some suggestions:
Day 1: Start your trip by exploring the vibrant capital city, Port of Spain. Visit the iconic Queen's Park Savannah and enjoy a relaxing stroll or picnic in this beautiful open space. Head to the Magnificent Seven, a collection of colonial-era mansions that are known for their exquisite architectural details. End the day with a visit to the bustling Chaguaramas Boardwalk, where you can watch the sunset over the Caribbean Sea.
Day 2: Experience the rich cultural heritage of Trinidad and Tobago by visiting the National Museum and Art Gallery in Port of Spain. This museum showcases the country's history, art and culture through various exhibits and interactive displays. After your visit, take a short trip to Maracas Beach, famous for its scenic beauty and delicious bake-and-shark meals.
Day 3: Explore the lush rainforests of northern Trinidad by taking a hike in the nearby mountains. Visit the Asa Wright Nature Centre, a world-renowned birdwatching destination, surrounded by acres of pristine forest. Take a guided tour to spot a wide variety of bird species, as well as other wildlife such as monkeys and butterflies.
Day 4: Travel to the southernmost point of Trinidad to explore the ancient temple ruins of Lopinot. These ruins were once home to the Amerindian tribes that lived on the island before the arrival of European settlers. Afterward, visit the La Brea Pitch Lake, the largest natural deposit of asphalt in the world.
Day 5: Take a day trip to Tobago, the smaller twin island of Trinidad. Visit Pigeon Point Beach, which is considered one of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean. Relax on the white sand beach, swim in the crystal-clear waters, and try water sports such as kayaking or snorkeling.
Day 6: Experience Tobago's wildlife and nature by visiting the Main Ridge Forest Reserve. This rainforest is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including over 200 species of birds. Take a guided hike through the forest to explore its hidden gems and learn about its ecological significance.
Day 7: End your trip with a visit to the Buccoo Reef and Nylon Pool, off the coast of Tobago. Take a glass-bottom boat tour to see the vibrant marine life and colorful coral reefs up close. You can also take a dip in the Nylon Pool, a shallow sandbar surrounded by turquoise waters.
No matter where you go in Trinidad and Tobago, you're sure to have an amazing time! These are just some suggestions to get you started, but there are many more hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Enjoy your trip!
[🔒CLASSIC] Based on your location in Trinidad and Tobago, I would suggest exploring the capital city, Port of Spain, and taking a day trip to the nearby island of Tobago to visit its beautiful beaches and national parks. Additionally, you could also visit the Asa Wright Nature Centre to experience the rainforests of northern Trinidad and take a tour of the La Brea Pitch Lake. Regardless of the country situation, it's always important to prioritize safety and follow any government guidelines or restrictions during your travels.
If you have 2 weeks
Awesome, I'm excited to create a fun itinerary for you! Trinidad and Tobago is a beautiful place with lots of amazing things to see and do. Here's my two-week itinerary for your trip:
Week 1:
Day 1-2: Start your journey by exploring the capital city of Port of Spain. Visit the Queen's Park Savannah, it's a large public park which hosts carnivals and other events throughout the year. You should also check out the National Museum and Art Gallery, which houses many artifacts and exhibitions about the history of Trinidad and Tobago.
Day 3-4: Take a trip to the Tobago island, and visit Pigeon Point beach. This is one of the most beautiful beaches in Tobago, with clear blue waters and white sandy beaches. You can go swimming, sunbathing and even take a glass-bottomed boat tour to see tropical fish and coral reefs.
Day 5-6: Head down to San Fernando and visit the Pitch Lake. It's a natural wonder that has been around for thousands of years - this lake contains asphalt-like material that can be used for road construction.
Day 7-8: Visit the Maracas Beach, it's located on the north coast of the island of Trinidad. The beach is famous for its "bake and shark" sandwich stands. After spending the day relaxing on the beach, enjoy a delicious snack by trying one of these local delicacies.
Week 2:
Day 9-10: Go to the Caroni Bird Sanctuary and participate in an eco-tour. Here you will have the opportunity to see different bird species along with spectacular sunsets. Make sure to bring a camera; the views are unforgettable.
Day 11-12: Explore the Nariva Swamp and see a wide range of plants and animals. This area is home to numerous birds, snakes, and other animals, and you'll be able to take a canoe tour to see them all up close.
Day 13-14: Head to the Asa Wright Nature Centre, which is a conservation site that spans over 1,500 acres. The center features several hiking trails, birdwatching, and wildlife sightings. Here you will experience the beauty of Trinidad and Tobago's natural heritage.
I hope you enjoy your trip! This itinerary filled with unique locations to visit during your stay in Trinidad and Tobago. Enjoy the scenery, rich culture, and exciting experiences during your vacation.
Culture
Trinidad and Tobago has a diverse culture with Indian, African, Creole, European, Chinese, Indigenous, Latino-Hispanic, and Arab influences, reflecting the various communities who have migrated to the islands over the centuries.
The island is particularly renowned for its annual Carnival celebrations. Festivals rooted in various religions and cultures practiced on the islands are also popular. Hindu festivals include Diwali, Phagwah (Holi), Nauratri, Vijayadashami, Maha Shivratri, Krishna Janmashtami, Ram Naumi, Hanuman Jayanti, Ganesh Utsav, Saraswati Jayanti, Kartik Nahan, Makar Sankranti, Pitru Paksha, Raksha Bandhan, Mesha Sankranti, Guru Purnima, Tulasi Vivaha, Vivaha Panchami, Kalbhairo Jayanti, Datta Jayanti, and Gita Jayanti. Christian holidays and observances include Spiritual Baptist/Shouter Liberation Day, Lent, Palm Sunday, Easter, Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, Ash Wednesday, Holy Week, Easter Monday, Octave of Easter, Pentecost, Whit Monday, Old Year's Day, New Year's Day, Christmas, Boxing Day, Epiphany, Assumption of Mary, Feast of Corpus Christi, All Souls' Day, All Saints' Day. Muslim holidays include Hosay (Ashura), Eid al-Fitr, Eid al-Adha, Mawlid, Ramadan, Chaand Raat, and Shab-e-barat. People of Indian descent celebrate Indian Arrival Day to commemorate the arrival of their indentured Indian ancestors beginning in 1845 and people of African descent celebrate Emancipation Day to commemorate the day their African ancestors were emancipated from slavery. Trinidad and Tobago was the first country in the world to recognize both of these holiday and make them public holidays. The Indigenous Amerindians have their Santa Rosa Indigenous Festival and the Chinese Trinidadians and Tobagonians have the Chinese New Year. National holidays such as Independence Day, Republic Day and Labour Day are celebrated as well.
Diversity is also reflected the culinary culture, which bears witness to a variety of influences, including Indian, African, and colonial traditions.
Trinidad and Tobago claims two Nobel Prize-winning authors, Vidiadhar Surajprasad Naipaul and St Lucian-born Derek Walcott (who also founded the Trinidad Theatre Workshop). Other notable writers include Neil Bissoondath, Vahni Capildeo, C. L. R. James, Earl Lovelace, Rabindranath Maharaj, Lakshmi Persaud, Kenneth Ramchand, Arnold Rampersad, Kris Rampersad and Samuel Selvon.
Trinidadian designer Peter Minshall is renowned not only for his Carnival costumes but also for his role in opening ceremonies of the Barcelona Olympics, the 1994 FIFA World Cup, the 1996 Summer Olympics, and the 2002 Winter Olympics, for which he won an Emmy Award.
Trinidad and Tobago is the birthplace of calypso music and the steelpan. Trinidad is also the birthplace of soca music, chutney music, chutney-soca, parang, rapso, pichakaree and chutney parang.
The limbo dance originated in Trinidad as an event that took place at wakes in Trinidad. The limbo has African roots. It was popularized in the 1950s by dance pioneer Julia Edwards (known as the "First Lady of Limbo") and her company which appeared in several films. Bélé, Bongo, and whining are also dance forms with African roots.
Jazz, ballroom, ballet, modern, and salsa dancing are also popular.
Indian dance forms are also prevalent in Trinidad and Tobago. Kathak, Odissi, and Bharatanatyam are the most popular Indian classical dance forms in Trinidad and Tobago. Indian folk dances and Bollywood dances are also popular.
Geoffrey Holder (brother of Boscoe Holder) and Heather Headley are two Trinidad-born artists who have won Tony Awards for theatre. Holder also has a distinguished film career, and Headley has won a Grammy Award as well.
Indian theatre is also popular throughout Trinidad and Tobago. Nautankis and dramas such as Raja Harishchandra, Raja Nal, Raja Rasalu, Sarwaneer (Sharwan Kumar), Indra Sabha, Bhakt Prahalad, Lorikayan, Gopichand, and Alha-Khand were brought by Indians to Trinidad and Tobago, however they had largely began to die out, till preservation began by Indian cultural groups. Ramleela, the drama about the life of the Hindu deity Rama, is popular during the time between Sharad Navaratri and Vijaydashmi, and Ras leela (Krishna leela), the drama about the life of the Hindu deity Krishna, is popular around the time of Krishna Janmashtami.
Trinidad and Tobago is also smallest country to have two Miss Universe titleholders and the first black woman ever to win: Janelle Commissiong in 1977, followed by Wendy Fitzwilliam in 1998; the country has also had one Miss World titleholder, Giselle LaRonde who won in 1986.
Hasely Crawford won the first Olympic gold medal for Trinidad and Tobago in the men's 100-metre dash in the 1976 Summer Olympics. Nine different athletes from Trinidad and Tobago have won twelve medals at the Olympics, beginning with a silver medal in weightlifting, won by Rodney Wilkes in 1948. Most recently, a gold medal was won by Keshorn Walcott in the men's javelin throw in 2012. Ato Boldon has won the most Olympic and World Championship medals for Trinidad and Tobago in athletics, with eight in total – four from the Olympics and four from the World Championships. Boldon won the 1997 200-metre dash World Championship in Athens, and was the sole world champion Trinidad and Tobago had produced until Jehue Gordon in Moscow 2013. Swimmer George Bovell III won a bronze medal in the men's 200 metres Individual Medley in 2004. At the 2017 World Championship in London, the Men's 4x400 relay team captured the title, thus the country now celebrates three world championships titles. The team consisted of Jarrin Solomon, Jareem Richards, Machel Cedenio and Lalonde Gordon with Renny Quow who ran in the heats.
Also in 2012, Lalonde Gordon competed in the London Summer Olympics where he won a bronze medal in the 400-metre dash, being surpassed by Luguelin Santos of the Dominican Republic and Kirani James of Grenada. Keshorn Walcott (as stated above) came first in javelin and earned a gold medal, making him the second Trinidadian in the country's history to receive one. This also makes him the first Western athlete in 40 years to receive a gold medal in the javelin sport, and the first athlete from Trinidad and Tobago to win a gold medal in a field event in the Olympics. Sprinter Richard Thompson is also from Trinidad and Tobago. He came second place to Usain Bolt in the Beijing Olympics in the 100-metre dash with a time of 9.89s.
In 2018, The Court of Arbitration for Sport made its final decision on the failed doping sample from the Jamaican team in the 4 x 100 relay in the 2008 Olympic Games. The team from Trinidad and Tobago will be awarded the gold medal, because of the second rank during the relay run.
Cricket is a popular sport of Trinidad and Tobago, often deemed the national sport, and there is intense inter-island rivalry with its Caribbean neighbours. Trinidad and Tobago is represented at Test cricket, One Day International as well as Twenty20 cricket level as a member of the West Indies team. The national team plays at the first-class level in regional competitions such as the Regional Four Day Competition and Regional Super50. Meanwhile, the Trinbago Knight Riders play in the Caribbean Premier League.
The Queen's Park Oval located in Port of Spain is the largest cricket ground in the West Indies, having hosted 60 Test matches as of January 2018. Trinidad and Tobago along with other islands from the Caribbean co-hosted the 2007 Cricket World Cup.
Brian Lara, world record holder for the most runs scored both in a Test and in a First Class innings amongst other records, was born in the small town of Santa Cruz and is often referred to as the Prince of Port of Spain or simply the Prince. This legendary West Indian batsman is widely regarded.
Association football is also a popular sport in Trinidad and Tobago. The men's national football team qualified for the 2006 FIFA World Cup for the first time by beating Bahrain in Manama on 16 November 2005, making them the second smallest country ever (in terms of population) to qualify, after Iceland. The team, coached by Dutchman Leo Beenhakker, and led by Tobagonian-born captain Dwight Yorke, drew their first group game – against Sweden in Dortmund, 0–0, but lost the second game to England on late goals, 0–2. They were eliminated after losing 2–0 to Paraguay in the last game of the Group stage. Prior to the 2006 World Cup qualification, Trinidad and Tobago came close in a controversial qualification campaign for the 1974 FIFA World Cup. Following the match, the referee of their critical game against Haiti was awarded a lifetime ban for his actions. Trinidad and Tobago again fell just short of qualifying for the World Cup in 1990, needing only a draw at home against the United States but losing 1–0. They play their home matches at the Hasely Crawford Stadium. Trinidad and Tobago hosted the 2001 FIFA U-17 World Championship, and hosted the 2010 FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup.
The TT Pro League is the country's primary football competition and is the top level of the Trinidad and Tobago football league system. The Pro League serves as a league for professional football clubs in Trinidad and Tobago. The league began in 1999 as part of a need for a professional league to strengthen the country's national team and improve the development of domestic players. The first season took place in the same year beginning with eight teams.
Basketball is commonly played in Trinidad and Tobago in colleges, universities and throughout various urban basketball courts. Its national team is one of the most successful teams in the Caribbean. At the Caribbean Basketball Championship it won four straight gold medals from 1986 to 1990.
Netball has long been a popular sport in Trinidad and Tobago, although it has declined in popularity in recent years. At the Netball World Championships they co-won the event in 1979, were runners up in 1987, and second runners up in 1983.
Rugby is played in Trinidad and Tobago and continues to be a popular sport, and horse racing is regularly followed in the country.
There is also the Trinidad and Tobago national baseball team which is controlled by the Baseball/Softball Association of Trinidad and Tobago, and represents the nation in international competitions. The team is a provisional member of the Pan American Baseball Confederation.
There are a number of 9 and 18-hole golf courses on Trinidad and Tobago. The most established is the St Andrews Golf Club, Maraval in Trinidad (commonly referred to as Moka), and there is a newer course at Trincity, near Piarco Airport called Millennium Lakes. There are 18-hole courses at Chaguramas and Point-a-Pierre and nine-hole courses at Couva and St Madeline. Tobago has two 18-hole courses. The older of the two is at Mount Irvine, with the Magdalena Hotel & Golf Club (formerly Tobago Plantations) being built more recently.
Although a minor sport, bodybuilding is of growing interest in Trinidad and Tobago. Darrem Charles, a former world class body builder, is from Trinidad and Tobago.
Dragonboat is also another water-sport that has been rapidly growing over the years. Introduced in 2006. the fraternity made consistent strides in having more members a part of the TTDBF (Trinidad and Tobago Dragonboat Federation) as well as performing on an international level such as the 10th IDBF World Nations Dragon Boat Championships in Tampa, Florida in the US in 2011.
Claude Noel is a former world champion in professional boxing. He was born in Tobago.
The flag was chosen by the Independence committee in 1962. Red, black and white symbolise the warmth of the people, the richness of the earth and water respectively.
The coat of arms was designed by the Independence committee, and features the scarlet ibis (native to Trinidad), the cocrico (native to Tobago) and hummingbird. The shield bears three ships, representing both the Trinity, and the three ships that Columbus sailed.
There are five categories and thirteen classes of national awards:
* The Order of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago (formerly The Trinity Cross Medal of the Order of the Trinity) in Gold only
* The Chaconia Medal, in Gold, Silver and Bronze
* The Hummingbird Medal, in Gold, Silver and Bronze
* The Public Service Medal of Merit, in Gold, Silver and Bronze
* The Medal for the Development of Women, in Gold, Silver and Bronze
The national anthem of the twin-island state is "Forged from the Love of Liberty".
Other national songs include "God Bless Our Nation" and "Our Nation's Dawning".
The national flower of Trinidad and Tobago is the chaconia flower. It was chosen as the national flower because it is an indigenous flower that has witnessed the history of Trinidad and Tobago. It was also chosen as the national flower because of its red colour that resembles the red of the national flag and coat of arms and because it blooms around the Independence Day of Trinidad and Tobago.
The national birds of Trinidad and Tobago are the scarlet ibis and the cocrico. The scarlet ibis is kept safe by the government by living in the Caroni Bird Sanctuary which was set up by the government for the protection of these birds. The Cocrico is more indigenous to the island of Tobago and are more likely to be seen in the forest. The hummingbird is considered another symbol of Trinidad and Tobago due to its significance to the Indigenous peoples, however, it is not a national bird.
Religion
According to the 2011 census, Christianity is the largest religion of the country, claimed as the faith of 63.2% of the population. Roman Catholics were the largest single denomination, with 21.60% of the total population. The Pentecostal/Evangelical/Full Gospel denominations were the third largest group with 12.02% of the population. Various other Christian denominations include (Spiritual Baptist (5.67%), Anglicans (5.67%), Seventh-day Adventists (4.09%), Presbyterians or Congregationalists (2.49%), Jehovah's Witnesses (1.47%), Baptists (1.21%), Methodists (0.65%) and the Moravian Church (0.27%)).
Hinduism was the second largest religion in the country, adhered to by 20.4% of the population in 2011. Hinduism is practised throughout the country, Diwali is a public holiday, and other Hindu holidays are also widely celebrated. The largest Hindu organization in Trinidad and Tobago is the Sanatan Dharma Maha Sabha, which was formed in 1952 after the merging of the two main Hindu organizations. Most Hindus in Trinidad and Tobago are Sanātanī (Sanatanist/Orthodox Hindu). Other sects and organizations include the Arya Samaj, Kabir Panth, Seunariani (Sieunarini/Siewnaraini/Shiv Narayani), Ramanandi Sampradaya, Aughar (Aghor), Kali Mai (Madrasi), Sathya Sai Baba movement, Shirdi Sai Baba movement, ISKCON (Hare Krishna), Chinmaya Mission, Bharat Sevashram Sangha, Divine Life Society, Murugan (Kaumaram), Ganapathi Sachchidananda movement, Jagadguru Kripalu Parishat (Radha Madhav) and Brahma Kumaris.
Muslims represented 4.97% of the population in 2011. Eid al-Fitr is a public holiday and Eid al-Adha, Mawlid, Hosay, Shab-e-barat, and other Muslim holidays are also celebrated.
African-derived or Afrocentric religions are also practised, notably Trinidad Orisha (Yoruba) believers (0.9%) and Rastafarians (0.27%). Various aspects of traditional obeah beliefs are still commonly practised on the islands.
There has been a Jewish community on the islands for many centuries, however their numbers have never been large, with a 2007 estimate putting the Jewish population at 55 individuals.
Respondents who did not state a religious affiliation represented 11.1% of the population, with 2.18% declaring themselves irreligious.
Two African syncretic faiths, the Shouter or Spiritual Baptists and the Orisha faith (formerly called Shangos, a less than complimentary term) are among the fastest growing religious groups. Similarly, there is a noticeable increase in numbers of Evangelical Protestant and Fundamentalist churches usually lumped as "Pentecostal" by most Trinidadians, although this designation is often inaccurate. Sikhism, Jainism, Baháʼí, Zoroastrianism, and Buddhism are practiced by a minority of Indo-Trinidadian and Tobagonians, mostly by recent immigrants from India. Several eastern religions such as Buddhism, Chinese folk religion, Taoism and Confucianism are followed by a minority of Chinese Trinidadian and Tobagonian, with most being Christians.
Demographics
The population of the country currently stands at 1,367,558 (June 2021 est.).
The ethnic composition of Trinidad and Tobago reflects a history of conquest and immigration. While the earliest inhabitants were of Indigenous heritage, the two dominant groups in the country are now those of South Asian and of African heritage. Indo-Trinidadian and Tobagonians make up the country's largest ethnic group (approximately 35.4%); they are primarily the descendants of indentured workers from India, brought to replace freed African slaves who refused to continue working on the sugar plantations. Through cultural preservation many residents of Indian descent continue to maintain traditions from their ancestral homeland. Indo-Trinidadians reside primarily on Trinidad; as of the 2011 census only 2.5% of Tobago's population was of Indian descent.
Afro-Trinidadians and Tobagonians make up the country's second largest ethnic group, with approximately 34.2% of the population identifying as being of African descent. The majority of people of an African background are the descendants of slaves forcibly transported to the islands from as early as the 16th century. This group constitute the majority on Tobago, at 85.2%.
The bulk of the rest of the population are those who identify as being of mixed heritage. There are also small but significant minorities of people of Indigenous, European, Portuguese, Latino-Hispanic, Chinese, and Arab descent.
Arima in Trinidad is a noted centre of First Peoples' culture, including as the headquarters of the Carib Queen and the location of the Santa Rosa First Peoples Community.
English is the country's official language (the local variety of standard English is Trinidadian and Tobagonian English or more properly, Trinidad and Tobago Standard English, abbreviated as "TTSE"), but the main spoken language is either of two English-based creole languages (Trinidadian Creole or Tobagonian Creole), which reflects the Indigenous, European, African, and Asian heritage of the nation. Both creoles contain elements from a variety of African languages; Trinidadian English Creole, however, is also influenced by French and French Creole (Patois).
The variant that is spoken in Trinidad and Tobago is known as Trinidadian Hindustani, Trinidadian Bhojpuri, Trinidadian Hindi, Indian, Plantation Hindustani, or Gaon ke Bolee (Village Speech). A majority of the early Indian indentured immigrants spoke the Bhojpuri and Awadhi dialects, which later formed into Trinidadian Hindustani. In 1935, Indian movies began showing to audiences in Trinidad. Most of the Indian movies were in the Standard Hindustani (Hindi-Urdu) dialect and this modified Trinidadian Hindustani slightly by adding Standard Hindi and Urdu phrases and vocabulary to Trinidadian Hindustani. Indian movies also revitalized Hindustani among Indo-Trinidadian and Tobagonians. The British colonial government and estate owners had disdain and contempt for Hindustani and Indian languages in Trinidad. Due to this, many Indians saw it as a broken language keeping them in poverty and bound to the cane fields, and did not pass it on as a first language, but rather as a heritage language, as they favored English as a way out. Around the mid to late 1960s the lingua franca of Indo-Trinidadian and Tobagonians switched from Trinidadian Hindustani to a sort of Hindinized version of English. Today Hindustani survives on through Indo-Trinidadian and Tobagonian musical forms such as, Bhajan, Indian classical music, Indian folk music, Filmi, Pichakaree, Chutney, Chutney soca, and Chutney parang. As of 2003, there are about 15,633 Indo-Trinidadian and Tobagonians who speak Trinidadian Hindustani and as of 2011, there are about 10,000 who speak Standard Hindi. Many Indo-Trinidadians and Tobagonians today speak a type of Hinglish that consists of Trinidadian and Tobagonian English that is heavily laced with Trinidadian Hindustani vocabulary and phrases and many Indo-Trinidadians and Tobagonians can recite phrases or prayers in Hindustani today. There are many places in Trinidad and Tobago that have names of Hindustani origin. Some phrases and vocabulary have even made their way into the mainstream English and English Creole dialect of the country.Still most indo Trinidadian only speak English World Hindi Day is celebrated each year on 10 January with events organized by the National Council of Indian Culture, Hindi Nidhi Foundation, Indian High Commission, Mahatma Gandhi Institute for Cultural Co-operation, and the Sanatan Dharma Maha Sabha.
The Tamil language is spoken by some of the older Tamil (Madrasi) Indo-Trinidadian and Tobagonian population. It is mostly spoken by the few remaining children of indentured Indian labourers from the present-day state of Tamil Nadu in India. Other speakers of the language are recent immigrants from Tamil Nadu.
A majority of the people who immigrated in the 19th century were from southern China and spoke the Hakka and Yue dialects of Chinese. In the 20th century after the years of indentureship up to the present-day more Chinese people have immigrated to Trinidad and Tobago for business and they speak the dialects of the indenturees along with other Chinese dialects, such as Mandarin and Min. J. Dyer Ball, writing in 1906, says: "In Trinidad there were, about twenty years ago, 4,000 or 5,000 Chinese, but they have decreased to probably about 2,000 or 3,000, [2,200 in 1900]. They used to work in sugar plantations, but are now principally shopkeepers, as well as general merchants, miners and railway builders, etc."
The indigenous languages were Yao on Trinidad and Karina on Tobago, both Cariban, and Shebaya on Trinidad, which was Arawakan.
According to the 2011 census, Christianity is the largest religion of the country, claimed as the faith of 63.2% of the population. Roman Catholics were the largest single denomination, with 21.60% of the total population. The Pentecostal/Evangelical/Full Gospel denominations were the third largest group with 12.02% of the population. Various other Christian denominations include (Spiritual Baptist (5.67%), Anglicans (5.67%), Seventh-day Adventists (4.09%), Presbyterians or Congregationalists (2.49%), Jehovah's Witnesses (1.47%), Baptists (1.21%), Methodists (0.65%) and the Moravian Church (0.27%)).
Hinduism was the second largest religion in the country, adhered to by 20.4% of the population in 2011. Hinduism is practised throughout the country, Diwali is a public holiday, and other Hindu holidays are also widely celebrated. The largest Hindu organization in Trinidad and Tobago is the Sanatan Dharma Maha Sabha, which was formed in 1952 after the merging of the two main Hindu organizations. Most Hindus in Trinidad and Tobago are Sanātanī (Sanatanist/Orthodox Hindu). Other sects and organizations include the Arya Samaj, Kabir Panth, Seunariani (Sieunarini/Siewnaraini/Shiv Narayani), Ramanandi Sampradaya, Aughar (Aghor), Kali Mai (Madrasi), Sathya Sai Baba movement, Shirdi Sai Baba movement, ISKCON (Hare Krishna), Chinmaya Mission, Bharat Sevashram Sangha, Divine Life Society, Murugan (Kaumaram), Ganapathi Sachchidananda movement, Jagadguru Kripalu Parishat (Radha Madhav) and Brahma Kumaris.
Muslims represented 4.97% of the population in 2011. Eid al-Fitr is a public holiday and Eid al-Adha, Mawlid, Hosay, Shab-e-barat, and other Muslim holidays are also celebrated.
African-derived or Afrocentric religions are also practised, notably Trinidad Orisha (Yoruba) believers (0.9%) and Rastafarians (0.27%). Various aspects of traditional obeah beliefs are still commonly practised on the islands.
There has been a Jewish community on the islands for many centuries, however their numbers have never been large, with a 2007 estimate putting the Jewish population at 55 individuals.
Respondents who did not state a religious affiliation represented 11.1% of the population, with 2.18% declaring themselves irreligious.
Two African syncretic faiths, the Shouter or Spiritual Baptists and the Orisha faith (formerly called Shangos, a less than complimentary term) are among the fastest growing religious groups. Similarly, there is a noticeable increase in numbers of Evangelical Protestant and Fundamentalist churches usually lumped as "Pentecostal" by most Trinidadians, although this designation is often inaccurate. Sikhism, Jainism, Baháʼí, Zoroastrianism, and Buddhism are practiced by a minority of Indo-Trinidadian and Tobagonians, mostly by recent immigrants from India. Several eastern religions such as Buddhism, Chinese folk religion, Taoism and Confucianism are followed by a minority of Chinese Trinidadian and Tobagonian, with most being Christians.
Children generally start pre-school at two and a half years but this is not mandatory. They are, however, expected to have basic reading and writing skills when they commence primary school. Students begin primary school at age five and move on to secondary after seven years. The seven classes of primary school consists of First Year and Second Year, followed by Standard One through Standard Five. During the final year of primary school, students prepare for and sit the Secondary Entrance Assessment (SEA) which determines the secondary school the child will attend.
Students attend secondary school for a minimum of five years, leading to the CSEC (Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate) examinations, which is the equivalent of the British GCSE O levels. Children with satisfactory grades may opt to continue high school for a further two-year period, leading to the Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examinations (CAPE), the equivalent of GCE A levels. Both CSEC and CAPE examinations are held by the Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC). Public Primary and Secondary education is free for all, although private and religious schooling is available for a fee.
Tertiary education for tuition costs are provided for via GATE (The Government Assistance for Tuition Expenses), up to the level of the bachelor's degree, at the University of the West Indies (UWI), the University of Trinidad and Tobago (UTT), the University of the Southern Caribbean (USC), the College of Science, Technology and Applied Arts of Trinidad and Tobago (COSTAATT) and certain other local accredited institutions. Government also currently subsidises some Masters programmes. Both the Government and the private sector also provide financial assistance in the form of academic scholarships to gifted or needy students for study at local, regional or international universities. Trinidad and Tobago was ranked 97th in the Global Innovation Index in 2021, down from 91st in 2019.
While women account for only 49% of the population, they constitute nearly 55% of the workforce in the country.
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