While some head to the Hamptons, Caribbeans in New York City – or those visiting the New York area – head to Brooklyn! Labor Day weekend has become synonymous with Carnival in New York (aka the West Indian American Day Parade). Caribbean events will be at an all time high this weekend and it’s one of the best times to partake in festive events as sort of a last “hoo-rah” of the summer. The weekend is filled with fetes and festivals sprinkled throughout the boroughs. Here’s a list of a few events on my radar that you may want to check out over the weekend.
Hot 97’s On Da Reggae Tip is hosted by Bobby Konders & Jabba. The duo have been holding down the riddims on Hot 97 every Sunday for years with their radio program On Da Reggae Tip, this concert is an extension of their program and has become the unofficial kick off to Labor Day weekend. Performances by Mavado, Stephen Marley, Barrington Levy, Gyptian, Demarco, Elephant Man, Stephen & Chino McGregor, Ding Dong. If you can’t make it to the concert, the after party at BB Kings.
Reggae Rhythm & Blues is one of the first attempts in the New York City area to present Reggae, Dancehall, Soca and R&B on one stage. On Sunday, Sept. 4 Babyface, Monica, Mavado, Machel Montano, Tarrus Riley and recently added John Holt and I-Octane will all hit the stage in true reggae festival style at the outdoor venue, Roy Wilkins Park in Queens. As a family friendly event, children under 12 are free, for additional details and ticket information click here.
The artist line up for 5 Alarm Blaze looks like you may get exhausted (in a good way) so make sure you have enough energy for this concert/party Sunday, Sept. 4. Damian & Stephen Marley, Elephant Man, Mr Vegas, Bunji Garlin, Faye-Ann Lyons, Lyrikal, TallPree, Serani, Ding Dong, Ricky Blaze & more will perform Sunday night, Sept. 5 at Webster Hall.
Taking in the parade on Monday, Sept. 5 is a must! Whether you are playing mas or watching from the sidelines, the West Indian American Day parade is a great time to see Caribbeans coming together carnival style. The elaborate costumes, the music blasting from huge speakers, the flags waving, hips gyrating … and the food! It’s a great time for newbies to experience Carnival culture and if you’re not into the parade you can always participate in J’Ouvert to see the floats setting up. Check out the West Indian American Day Carnival Association for parade route and details.
If you’re not too tired, head to lower Manhattan for Rice and Peas Party. The Labor Day edition of the monthly party kept every first Monday of the month is sure to be filled with good vibes to close out your Caribbean weekend.
For additional parties and events going on this weekend check out sites like Trini Jungle Juice, DatzWhatzUp and Event Bug.
Stay tuned for the my NY Carnival Survival Kit, everything you need to survive this weekend!
Mikelah
Mikelah is a Caribbean Culture expert, curating the bridge between the Caribbean and its diaspora. A CUNY Baruch College graduate with a BBA in Marketing. With previous experience with Caribbean lifestyle brands such as VP Records, Tempo TV and JAMROCK Magazine. Currently serving as a digital marketing maven by day, while continuing to collaborate with Caribbean brands.
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