After releasing last week its “Rebirth” for New York Carnival Week 2021, the Brooklyn-based West Indian American Day Carnival Association (WIADCA), organizer of the massive, annual West Indian American Day Carnival Parade on Brooklyn’s Eastern Parkway, is this week welcoming back patrons.
“Welcome Back!” said WIADCA in a statement on Tuesday. “COVID-19 tried to keep us down, but New Yorkers are resilient.
“In 2021, we experienced many losses while adjusting to a new norm,” it added. “We applaud the efforts of our essential workers, small and minority businesses and community leaders in safeguarding our city.
“We have worked with many of them to provide much-needed resources to the underserved, and we could not have done it without you,” it continued.
In presenting “Rebirth” for its 54th year, WIADCA said it is “planning for our future now by leading with our youth as our focal point, and our community members and partners as our foundation.
“As North America’s oldest Caribbean cultural institution (contributor to the city’s economic stability and growth), we produced several year-round community programs for youth, adults and seniors,” it said.
WIADCA’s annual signature events, featuring several cultural and musical ambassadors are set to take place during New York Carnival Week — Friday, Sept. 3 to Monday, Sept. 6 at the Brooklyn Museum.
Cultural partners include Pride of the Caribbean, Sesame Flyers International, Antoine International, B Paradise Mas’, Poshy Productions/Kaisokah Mas and Kaisokah Moko Jumbies, among others, WIADCA said.
New York Carnival 2021 Schedule of Events comprises: Friday, Sept. 3 — Welcome Back, 7:00 pm – 2:00 am — a cultural experience featuring music and artists from the entire diaspora like Iwer George, Blaxx and more.
“During this event, we will pay tribute to the contributions of Jacob Desvarieux (guitarist and lead singer Kassav) and Herman Nau (co-founder and drummer Tabou Combo),” WIADCA said.
Music will be by DJ Pink Assassin, Stakz, Int’l DJ Spice, DJ Norie (Hot 97.1) and One Gyal Army. Admission: Eventbrite https://bit.ly/3yHopzp
Saturday, Sept. 4: Virtual International Youth Fest 2021 | 11:00 am – 8:00 pm — a virtual end of summer Caribbean Talent showcase promoting performing arts and cultural diversity, where all performances are welcome, WIADCA said.
Special performances will be by Trinidad All Stars, Kezia Sealy, Kiana Marcellin, KiMarli Jeffrey, Kamarly Simpson Da Big Show, Jr. Steelpan, Emancipation, Calypso winners and more. Guest Judges to be announced. Virtual admission via www.wiadcacarnival.org. Donations are appreciated.
Pan Jamboree | 7:00 pm – 12:00 am: “This culturally enriching showcase is complete with live performances from steel bands, pan soloists, doubles, quartets and more,” WIADCA said.
“The audience will witness an immersive 360-degree viewing experience at the Brooklyn Museum,” it added. “Don’t miss your chance to select a winner with a people’s choice award!” Admission: Eventbrite https://bit.ly/3yHUIya
Monday, Sept. 6: “The Ultimate New York Carnival Day Experience
Jus’ Like Mas’ | 11:00 am – 6:00 pm.
WIADCA said it will be partnership with Scorch Mag X, THC X Sunny Side Up, X Care Free Nation and X Black Star Denzil.
“Get your costumes or Monday wear ready and join us at Brooklyn Museum in ‘Di Big Yard’” WIADCA urged.
It said package includes: drinks, music trucks and live performances.
Admission: www.carnival.nyc or wiadcacarnival.org
WIADCA welcomes back patrons for NY Carnival Week
WIADCA