In Brooklyn yards, around Crown Heights and Flatbush, even in the outer boroughs, the conversation is prevalent that Summer is ebbing and plans for Labor Day are imminent.
A dominant suggestion proposes the free, all-access destination for a procession of costumed revelers, culinary delights, camaraderie, diversity, and expression of Caribbean pride on the first Monday in September. That is the day the 58th annual West Indian American Carnival Association marks the anniversary of its attraction and also says farewell to the summer season.
The final installment of weekend events begins at the start of Eastern Parkway at 10 a.m. on Sept. 1 and with music generating spirit and movement decorated bands of revelers proceed past avenues to be judged at the Brooklyn Museum and hopefully complete a procession by 6 p.m.
This year, “Vive Le Carnivale” themes a salute to what is now a 50-plus-year tradition that has galvanized millions and also offers colorful memories for children headed back to school.
With inclusive family-oriented events slated through five days and nights preceding the finale, an official launch recently at the entrance to the Brooklyn Museum announced the plethora planned from Aug. 29 to Sept. 1. Two parades — one designated for juniors and children on Saturday and the other dominated by adolescents and adults remain the main attractions.
Yet the pre-Labor Day offerings presented at the rear of the Brooklyn Museum are evident with select presentations of dancehall reggae, pan, tassa, mas, soca, and fetes.
Coincidentally, in its latest issue of Everybody’s Magazine the focus resonates on the milestone tradition as well as the historic significance of the holiday attraction.
Herman Hall, the magazine’s editor/publisher and a former board member of WIADCA, said it is important to document the role Caribbean immigrants have played in contributing to the cultural enrichment of New York City.
In an article allegedly published Sept 9, 1950, in the New York Amsterdam News, Hall provides reflective proof of 78 years of outdoor Caribbean revelry.
Perhaps the only surviving former board member from a photo taken 50 or more years ago, Hall also nostalgically reflects on a century of indoor celebrations that expanded from Harlem to Brooklyn, reaching up north to Toronto and Montreal, Canada.
In addition, Hall laments the demise of a preponderance of private fetes and other preliminary concerts that culminated in the parade.
For more information on activities, visit wiadcacarnival.org. For a retrospective on the history of carnival in NYC, check everybodysmag.com.
Indiana dedicates 2-day block party to Jacksons
Music, a mural, and tributes to Michael Jackson and his famous brothers will highlight an Aug. 28 and Aug. 29 block party in Gary, IN.
According to Mayor Eddie Melton, the Michael Jackson birthday anniversary honorarium will be held at the 2300 Jackson St. location the family resided before moving west to global fame. The mayor said comedian Chris Tucker will host the celebration which includes fun, food and frolic along the thoroughfare.
Reportedly, brothers Jackie and Marlon Jackson, who performed with Michael as members of the Jackson Five will attend the birthday anniversary ceremony.
In addition to the platitudes expected to be lavished, a tribute to Tito Jackson — who died last year — will also highlight the events.
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