NEW YORK — The West Indian Day Parade will be back in Brooklyn in full force this year, and as CBS2’s Thalia Perez reports, the festivities are already underway.
It was a musical feast of soothing melodies over the sweet sounds of steel oil drums that have been transformed into musical instruments. Hundreds turned out for the concert on the grounds of the Brooklyn Museum.
“I love it. This is what we do. This is what we live for,” said Tony Reece, with the Kutters Rhythm Section.
Reece says of the performers, it’s all about tradition and authenticity.
“Steelpan represents the music, the culture, the revolt against slavery to keep the free people free and liberated,” one person said.
Organizers say the steel pans are a symbol of the rich history from Trinidad and Tobago that has spread throughout the West Indies.
“You have this feeling of love, the energy, the vibe, it’s so good. I love the beat. It’s so soulful. So take me there!” said Empress Sharron, a Manhattan resident.
Earlier in the day, there was a Junior Carnival Parade in Crown Heights, where dozens of children proudly displayed their costumes.
“I’ve been doing this since I was about 8 years old and I was born in Guyana and I came to the U.S. so this is like a family, it’s like everything,” said Brooklyn resident Jermaine Lynch.
For the Gant family, these celebrations are an annual tradition. This year, their 4-year-old son Rashem participated.
“It’s great to get the kids out and enjoy the sun and enjoy the culture, the Caribbean culture,” said father Roy Gant.
Culture is the foundation of the West Indian tradition.
Meanwhile, road closures begin at 11pm on Sunday for Monday’s parade and there will be increased security from the NYPD.
The J’Ouvert Festival begins at 6 a.m. Monday at Grand Army Plaza and ends at Nostrand Avenue and Rutland Road at 11 a.m.
The West Indian Parade follows at 11 a.m. at Ralph Avenue and Eastern Parkway, ending at Grand Army Plaza.
