The Queens Caribbean Carnival last Saturday filled the streets of Far Rockaway with the vibrant colors, sounds and spirit of the Caribbean, according to State Senator James Sanders, Jr., who hosted the spectacle in partnership with Assemblymember Khaleel Anderson and Councilmember Selvena Brooks-Powers.
Sanders said on Tuesday that the event brought together thousands of participants and spectators.
New York City Comptroller Brad Lander also made a special appearance, “adding to the significance of the celebration,” Sanders said.
He said the carnival was “a vibrant showcase of unity, culture and community pride in the heart of Far Rockaway,” stating that the festivities began with a lively float processional that started at Bayswater Park and made its way to Beach 17th Street and DredSurfer Grill.
“The parade was a spectacular display of Caribbean culture, featuring dancers in colorful costumes, music trucks and kiddie masqueraders,” Sanders told Caribbean Life.
“Creating memories, establishing and cultivating relationships, and bringing togetherness through culture is always our goal,” said Jewel Nash, who was responsible for the stunning costumes that adorned the participants.
Following the parade, Sanders said the celebration continued at the beach, with a concert that featured performances by local artists and dancers.
He said the event also included “a bustling marketplace, where vendors offered a taste of the Caribbean with delicacies, crafts and souvenirs.
Laila Boyd, who was part of the Vendor Committee, shared her excitement: “It was a pleasure being a part of the Queens Carnival Committee and bringing cultural vibes to the Rockaway community.”
Sanders said one of the highlights of the event was the VIP Elected Officials Breakfast, which provided a platform for community leaders to connect and celebrate Caribbean heritage.
“Queens Carnival is keeping the Caribbean culture alive,” said Karen Crawford, who organized the breakfast.
Lisa George, acting chair of the Queens Carnival, reflected on the growth of the event: “The carnival, now in its sixth year, has reached new heights. This year’s additions, including music trucks from MIZWE and PRESTIGE and kiddie masqueraders from Jewel Jewels, have brought a fresh dynamic to the event.
“We anticipate expanding and enhancing the carnival next year for the benefit of all Queens residents, and what a more beautiful and better place for it to take place than in the Rockaways,” she added.
Ambassador Dr. Monica Sanchez, who served as a grand marshal, said she was “honored to be invited as a grand marshal at the Queens Carnival.
“The event was a true display of unity and community togetherness, with children dancing, residents enjoying themselves, and VIP guests including NYC Comptroller Brad Lander,” she said. “Hats off to the organizers and everyone who made this event a success.”
Council Majority Whip Brooks-Powers, the daughter of Jamaican immigrants, said it was “an honor to host and celebrate another successful Queens Carnival in partnership with Senator James Sanders Jr., Assembly Member Khaleel Anderson, and the Rockaway Development and Revitalization Corporation.
“Each year, the Queens Carnival attracts revelers from all over, and this year we were certain to add even more activities for families to benefit from, including the distribution of hundreds of school supplies and bookbags,” she said. “The Queens Carnival is an important opportunity for us to bring our community together, celebrate our rich local culture, and so much more.”
Sanders described this year’s Queens Caribbean Carnival as “a tremendous success, showcasing the best of our community’s vibrant culture.
“I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to Councilwoman Selvena Brooks-Powers, Assemblyman Khaleel Anderson, and the Rockaway Development and Revitalization Corporation for their partnership in making this event possible,” he said.
“Additionally, I want to thank the Carnival Committee, our sponsors, vendors and performers for their tireless efforts,” he added. “The energy, unity, and joy displayed by everyone involved made this event unforgettable. We look forward to continuing this tradition and bringing even more excitement and cultural pride to the Rockaways next year.”
Sanders said the Queens Caribbean Carnival has become “a cornerstone event in the borough, celebrating the diversity and vibrancy of the Caribbean community while fostering a sense of unity and cultural pride.”
He said he looks forward to further expanding the event next year “to continue bringing the spirit of the Caribbean to the heart of Queens.”
