CALABASH Checklist

Sitting waiting amidst plenty of anxiety is this dress ready to get on going to CALABASH. Only 9 days to go, so I have decided to start the packing. I thought it would be helpful to start a checklist for all the lovely first timers who will jetting in to the festival from faraway frozen over places. So here goes - the things you must have:

The Outfits

• Light-coloured pieces in light-weight linen or cotton are the best options since the beachside venue can get a bit humid and downright hot under the big tent.
  
• At least 5 pieces - 3 day pieces and 2 for the evening raving. Don't hold back in pulling out the the tanks, sleeve-less, short sleeves, walking shorts and of course if you must, a swimsuit.
  
• comfortable sandals
  
• hairclip

For Complete Comfort

• comfortable folding chair
  
• cushion/pillow for the journey
  
• beach towels
  
• a fan - makeshift, battery operated or folding. Read: something to fan.
  
• handkerchieves for the glow droplets (this one does not sweat)
  

For the Memories

• your script for your Open Mike takes
  
• reliable camera - digital or film
  
• sufficient batteries, chargers
  
• notebook, pens or markers
  
• tape recorder
  

Food

• breakfast
  
• lunch - sold at the Jack Sparrow restaurant typically costs between $700 upwards ( USD $5.50)
  
• bottles of water
  

Spending Money

• enough for food
  
• enough to support local vendors (roast yam and saltfish, melon, canteloupe, mango, jackfruit sellers)
  
• enough for books of authors appearing at the festival
  
• enough for those rare finds that usually turn up in the festival bookshop

Outside of these things, I would also say to get there early enough to park, find a place under the big tent or a shaded shrub as close as possible to a speakerbox.

So get packing and I'll meet you there.

S.S.