Trinidad and Tobago

Trinidad and Tobago is a country made up of two islands in the Caribbean Sea. It is near the coast of Venezuela. This country is famous for its wild Carnival celebrations and for inventing the steel drum. English is the main language.

Land and People

About 1.4 million people live in Trinidad and Tobago. The capital is Port of Spain on Trinidad. Trinidad is the bigger island with hills and forests. Tobago is smaller with quiet beaches and coral reefs.

Old painting of English sailors raiding a Spanish town.
Old painting of English sailors raiding a Spanish town. (Theodor de Bry / Wikimedia Commons)

Culture and Fun Facts

Trinidad and Tobago has one of the biggest Carnival celebrations in the world. The steel pan drum was invented there. The food mixes African, Indian, Chinese, and European flavors. Calypso and soca music make everyone dance.

Fun Facts

  • The steel pan drum was invented in Trinidad and is the only musical instrument invented in the 20th century.
  • Trinidad has a natural lake of tar called the Pitch Lake that never runs out.
  • Trinidad and Tobago has the third largest Carnival celebration in the world.

Did You Know?

Trinidad has a lake made entirely of natural tar called the Pitch Lake. It is the largest natural deposit of asphalt in the world. The tar has been used to pave roads all around the globe for over 100 years.