Last Thursday evening, the West Indian American Day Carnival Association (WIADCA) kicked off the 57th New York Carnival Week with an impressive launch at the Brooklyn Children’s Museum. The event, which unfolded with vibrant pageantry and excitement, marks the beginning of a week-long celebration of Caribbean culture, culminating in the highly anticipated Carnival Parade on Eastern Parkway.
Themed “The Evolution,” the launch event featured dynamic performances from both senior and junior masquerade bands, dance groups, and cultural presentations. Several local elected officials also took the stage, showing their support for this iconic celebration. Among them were City Council Members who represent Brooklyn districts, Crystal Hudson, who has Jamaican roots, and Haitian-born Rita Joseph.
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Hudson, whose district includes part of the parade route, enthusiastically declared, “We’re going to mash it up!”
WIADCA also introduced its advisory board, led by newly appointed chairman Andrew Maloney, a Vincentian-born attorney, during the ceremony. The organization emphasized that this year’s carnival is powered by an array of cultural partners, including the Brooklyn Museum, US Mas Bands Association, US Steelband Association, and several others. The celebration is further supported by the City and State of New York, various elected officials, and corporate sponsors.
The festivities officially kick off on August 29 with events running through Labor Day weekend. The Brooklyn Museum Grounds will start off at 4 pm by BlackStar Entertainment with ,Vibez w/Voicey the Graduation Tour by BlackStar Entertainment | 4:00pm, featuring Kerwin Dubois, Nadia Batson, Ding Dong, Skinny Fabulous, Adam O, GBM Nutron, Boizie, Wadicks, Lyrikal, Ravi B, Mical Teja, Nylah Blackman, Pumpa, V’GHN, Jadel, Asa Banton, Rane Blackman and more.
August 30: Socafest by One Fete by Gemini Productions at 7 pm featuring Patrice Roberts, Mical Teja, Farmer Nappy, Christopher Martin, Nigy Boy, Pumpa, Raymond Ramnarine, Tallpree, Mr. Killa, Terra D Governor & A Team Band.
August 31: Youth Fest & Junior Carnival Parade from 9 am – 4 pm.
August 31: New York Panorama 2024 from 7:00 pm – 3:00 am.
September 1: Sizzla Kolonji, YG Marley, Spragga Benz with Jay Upscale Entertainment at 3 pm.
September 2: New York Carnival Parade 2024 – The Evolution – presented by WIADCA and NY Carnival Bandleaders from 10 am – 6 pm.
Highlights include performances by popular Caribbean artists, the Youth Fest and Junior Carnival Parade, and the New York Panorama, where reigning champions Metro Steel Orchestra will defend their title against other top steel bands.
The grand finale takes place on September 2 with the New York Carnival Parade 2024, where dazzling costumed bands will take over Eastern Parkway, showcasing the rich and diverse cultures of the Caribbean. WIADCA promises a spectacular display of creativity, music, food, and Caribbean pride, led by community leaders and cultural ambassadors.
As the city gears up for this beloved tradition, newcomers can expect a week filled with infectious energy, vibrant colors, and a true celebration of Caribbean heritage in the heart of Brooklyn.
