Face it, summer 2015 will be recalled with fond remembrances of free concerts headlined by Chaka Khan, Stevie Wonder, Nicky Minaj, Maxi Priest, Taurus Riley, Morgan Heritage, Bunji Garlin, Third World, Damian and Stephen Marley, and others; stellar theatrical productions on and Off-Broadway featuring “The Fantastiks,” “Amazing Grace,” “Hamilton,” and “The Wiz”; big-screen releases endearing families to “Man From U.N.C.L.E,” “Mission Impossible,” “Straight Outta Compton,” new fun rides along Coney Island’s Boardwalk and a myriad of other entertainment. Throughout the three-month period, the outdoors seemed the most ideal location to meet and greet friends and family.
For some, the season ends much too soon and should be extended past this month’s official date.
Yet this week’s 48th annual Brooklyn bacchanal certainly closes out the sunniest and most calypso-filled season of the year with a colorful West Indian-American Labor Day parade some define as the “greatest show in North America.”
Pageantry and spectacle will explode this weekend through Monday in Brooklyn after kiddies’ parade, pans play, and food from foreign lands soothe the palate yearning for a taste of home.
In addition, flags will declare allegiance to countries beyond the Caribbean Sea and revelers will rule over the multitudes lining viewing areas from Utica Ave. to Grand Army Plaza.
At this time also, politicians will make their one-day convergence along Eastern Parkway to make their presence felt before primary and other elections decide their limit. Independents, Republicans, Democrats, liberals, and conservatives will walk the thoroughfare — some doling out gifts to convince the huge Caribbean constituency that their votes matter.
Of all the seasons, summer seems to get the biggest farewell.
Perhaps it is the fact, its passing means a new beginning for children either returning to school or making the big step to formal education for the very first time.
It is the one season that ends with diminishing days that shrink into early dusk.
The reality of a dwindling supply of fresh, juicy fruits, farmers markets and a desire to wear skimpy clothing conjure dismay and even ambivalence of cooler climes.
Realizing that cool temperatures bring a refreshing alternative and a period of rest for many animals, trees, and even some humans who choose to limit their work day to daylight hours, the hopes of long, hot bubble baths, restful nights, fashion-forward new designs, a September to remember, Halloween, and Thanksgiving are ahead, the chill will be easier to fall for.
See you on the inside!
