Millions Gather In New York for West Indian American Day Parade

Elaborate costumes were on display at the West Indian American Day Parade and many Caribbean countries were represented. Photos and Report by Ibrahim Dabo

BROOKLYN, NY—Much excitement had filled the air in New York City ahead of the West Indian American Day Parade on Sept. 6, where two million people were expected to attend. It was a day worth looking forward to.

And indeed, the atmoshpere was electric as the massive parade saw its way through Brooklyn.

Millions of people were expected to witness the parade in Brooklyn, New York. — Two million people were expected to witness the parade in New York.

The 43^rd annual event, one of the city’s largest festivals, drew people from all over the state and beyond to converge on to Eastern Parkway on a beautiful sunny afternoon.

Countries like Jamaica, Barbados, Trinidad and St. Lucia were well represented in the parade, which is a traditional celebration of pan-Caribbean cultures.

Soca music rained and thousands danced on.

The event was colorful and elaborate costumes were on display.

Many paradegoers could not help but feast on jerk chicken, roasted corn, and much more. The grills fumed enough to produce an appetizing smell that could make anyone go hungry.

“I thought this was a very interesting and fun-filled event,” said Dare Makun, who travelled from Maryland and joined in on the fun.

Dare Makun visited from Maryland and attended the parade, and cannot help but thank goodness for the weather and hype surrounding the event. — Dare Makun visited from Maryland and attended the parade, and could not help but thank goodness for the weather and hype surrounding the event.

“The mix of cultures and diversity was really partly informative and beautiful to watch. People from the West-Indies proudly displayed their flags vis-a-vis the American flag; highlighting the multicultural nature of the event.

“The costumes and music were very entertaining to watch.

“I thought it was very intriguing to also see popular politicians seizing the opportunity to hit the campaign trail at this event. Overall this was a fun event!”

Nigel, who hails from Jamaica said, “I was so looking forward to this day and now I get to party and dance like crazy.

“Nice ladies out here too, you know. Today all Caribbean are united. ‘All a we is one’ is how we put it back on the Islands.”