Braata Productions, in association with Councilwoman Selvena N. Brooks-Powers, Assemblyman Brian Cunningham and Council Member Kevin Riley, will this year host Christmas Grand Market in Queens, the Bronx and Brooklyn.
According to Jamaican Andrew Clarke, founder and artistic director for both Braata Folk Singers and Braata Productions, “this festive market takes place during the holiday season and features a variety of Caribbean-themed goods, including arts and crafts, traditional foods, music and cultural performances.
“It’s an opportunity for both Caribbean communities and others interested in Caribbean culture to come together, enjoy the holiday spirit, and explore the rich and diverse traditions of the Caribbean during the festive season,” Clarke said.
He said Jamaican-born cultural and creative industries entrepreneur, Dahlia Harris, will serve as Master of Ceremonies.
Clarke said Harris is dedicated to providing employment for creative talent, exploring critical social issues through the arts and advancing the global presence of Jamaican content.
The Christmas Grand Market is a longstanding tradition in Jamaica that takes place after the usual Christmas morning service or on the eve of Christmas Day, Clarke said.
“The whole community would be out in their numbers participating in a variety of games and competitions for all ages; lots of gifts, including many toys, were on sale from brightly decorated stalls,” he said. “There were food and drink in abundance, and a great time was had by the entire family throughout the day.”
Clarke said Braata Production’s 2023 Christmas Grand Market will feature Meecah (Hamilton), Abeena, Braata Folk Singers, Jonkanoo Parade and many more.
In Queens, the event will be held on Saturday, Dec. 9, at Merrick Academy Charter School, 136-25 218th Street, Springfield Gardens, NY 11413 (entrance on 137th Ave., between 218th & 219th streets). Market opens at 5:30 p.m.; concert at 7:00 p.m.
Christmas Grand Market takes place in the Bronx on Sunday, Dec. 10, at Harry S. Truman High School, 750 Baychester Ave. Market opens at 4:30 p.m.; concert at 6:00 p.m.
The showcase wraps up in Brooklyn on Saturday, Dec. 17, at Alliance Tabernacle (formerly Clarendon Road Church), 3304 Clarendon Road, Brooklyn, NY 11203. Market opens at 4:30 p.m.; concert at 6:00 p.m.
For more information, go to https://www.betterunite.com/BraataProductions-christmasgrandmarket2023-threelocations
