State Senator James Sanders announced that the Queens Carnival will return to the streets of Far Rockaway on Saturday, August 27, with masquerade costumes, moko jumbie walkers, singers, dancers, island food, a fun run and a sandcastle building contest . in the beach.
The festival is based on the concept of the Caribbean Carnival, an event that takes place in many countries around the world as the last opportunity to “release all the energy and joyful emotions” before the 40 days of Lent penitence, Sanders explained.
“Culture creates a sense of belonging, enhances learning and promotes physical and mental health. Under those circumstances, it was important to me to create an event to celebrate the Rockaways and the diverse melting pot that is the borough of Queens,” Sanders said. “I’m, of course, talking about the Queens Carnival, formerly the Rockaway Caribbean Carnival , now in its fourth year.”
This year’s Queens Carnival will highlight two island nations; Trinidad, known for its steel pans and limbo dancing, and Antigua which is celebrated for its many beaches. The carnival ride starts at Mott Avenue and Beach 21st Street at 11 a.m. ending at the Rockaway Boardwalk at Beach 17th Street.
“We’re going to have some fun,” Sanders said. “We will celebrate all of the Rockaways, but we will especially highlight the contributions of the Caribbean community to America.”
The festivities will include a concert by nationally recognized Soca sensation Destra Garcia as headliner.
“We are very proud to have a superstar of Destra’s stature as the crown jewel of our Queens Carnival,” Sanders said. “We look forward to Destra delivering one of her usual high-energy, dance-inducing performances.”
Queens Carnival will conclude with a fireworks display sponsored by Councilwoman Selvena Brooks-Powers, starting at sunset on the beach. Assemblyman Khaleel Anderson is a co-sponsor of the event, which is presented in partnership with the West Indian Day Carnival Association, Rockaway Community Development Corporation, REMA4US, DredSurfer Grill and Precinct 101 in Far Rockaway.
