Folk group Braata Productions — in collaboration with Queens Councilwoman Selvena N. Brooks-Powers and Brooklyn Assemblyman Brian Cunningham, children of Jamaican immigrants — said it will host “The Big Christmas Market: A Caribbean Feast” in December.
Braata Productions, whose founder and executive producer is Jamaican Andrew Clarke, said in a statement Friday that the festivities will be held Saturday, Dec. 10 at Merrick Academy Charter School, 136-25 218th Street, Queens, at 5:30 in the afternoon. with a concert at 19:00; Sunday, December 11 at Harry S. Truman High School, 750 Baychester Ave., Bronx at 4:30 p.m., with a concert at 6 p.m.; and Saturday, December 17, at Medgar Evers College, 1650 Bedford Ave., Brooklyn, at 4:30 p.m., with a concert at 6 p.m.
“Come join the festivities and enjoy the exciting ambiance, music, dance and lively company,” said Braata Productions, stating that this holiday season marks the first year it will host three markets in three different neighborhoods.
After launching a market in Queens in 2013, the company added a market in Brooklyn in 2017 and one in the Bronx in 2019.
Braata Productions said the Grand Market is a “long tradition in Jamaica” that takes place after the usual Christmas morning service or on Christmas Day.
“The whole community will be out in their numbers taking part in a range of games and competitions for all ages,” he said. “Many gifts, including many toys, will be sold from brightly decorated stalls; there is plenty of food and drink; and the whole family will have a great time all day long,” she said.
Clarke said, “As the only organization bringing Caribbean cultural experiences like this to New Yorkers, we’re thrilled to be adding a third borough to reach even more people this winter.
“We are expanding this Jamaican tradition to include other Caribbean islands,” he added. “This year is the 60th anniversary of Independence for Jamaica and Trinidad & Tobago; So the events will highlight the cultures of those countries in particular.”
“Come check out the vendors, the museum exhibit, and then enjoy a festive concert,” Clarke urged.
Organized by Dahlia Harris, the markets will feature performances from, among others, Jodian Pantry (Jamaica), Denise Belfon (Trinidad & Tobago), Braata Folk Singers and Jonkanoo Parade.
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