Haitians took over the parkway for the West Indian Day Parade in Brooklyn.
Around this time every year, we say farewell to summer and begin to prepare ourselves for the coming of fall. Each city around the nation has its way of coming to the end of the summer. In Brooklyn, New York the Caribbean community has a very special way of bidding farewell to summer with a celebration of our Caribbean heritage.
This past weekend we celebrated the 57th Annual Labor Day Parade. There is a cumulation of events that take place the first weekend of September. We got some amazing highlights from our Kanaval attendees including parents and friends who attended the Junior Kanaval. It is a very special moment being able to witness a dynamic weekend of deeply rooted traditions within the Brooklyn Caribbean community, but also within the Haitian community.
Junior Kanaval at the West Indian American Day Parade
Junior parade attendees celebrating their Haitian culture and pride during the annual Caribbean celebration. Photo Credit: Anne V Louis for Haitians Who Blog
Although the major parade has a cumulation of floats representing neighborhood-based organizations, political seats, and the Caribbean associations within the community. Beyond the floats, everyone enjoyed performances from some of the celebrities. From the food to the people, to all the major events leading up to the parade. This weekend celebrates Caribbean heritage set in historic tradition in Brooklyn, on the iconic Eastern Parkway.
Before diving into the details of Labor Day Monday, we have to get into a traditional part of this Brooklyn weekend. Junior Kanaval, We had the pleasure of interviewing two families that attended the Junior Kanaval of 2024. Prior to delving into the specifics of Labor Day Monday, we must first address a customary component of this Brooklyn weekend: the Junior Kanaval. We were fortunate to have the opportunity to interview two families who attended the 2024 Junior Kanaval.
The cutest tradition being passed down to the next generation in playing Mas! Junior Masqarader Eliza jumped with Stong J, at the tender age of 2! We spoke to her mother, notable Haitian dancer Marissa. She talked about the amazing time she had with Eliza. She walked us through the process and the tips she has for any parents planning to have their children participate:
Tips for Junior Kanaval at the West Indian American Day Parade 2024
Plan for the band launch: Prior to Kanaval in Brooklyn just as for Adult bands or floats. The children’s costumes come out for the launch. Even if you cannot attend the band launch, keep your eyes out for the pictures!
Bring your little ones must-haves: Keep your baby comfortable! For Eliza, Marissa made sure to bring along her pacifier to help soothe her.
Be flexible: be ready to adjust to your little ones' needs. Just as above Marissa mentioned she was prepared to take everything Eliza needed to adjust.
Setting traditions at the Brooklyn Labor Day Parade
When it comes to the Labor Day parade, it is known for the perfect and affordable family bonding celebration. We interviewed a few attendees to get in touch with how they build connections with their family at the annual celebration of West Indian culture.
Ymhani describes how her brother shared the love of music, specifically Soca. This brings in a tradition of them diving into the musical atmosphere at the festival where they connect on previous years memories.
The first Haitian float majestically made its way through the crowd, a harmonious energy of Rhaboday filled the air. This float, features popular Haitian DJ Tony Mix. The obligation of each artist and DJ during Kanaval is to ensure they are hyping the crowd and setting the pace for the march down the road! The call and response of the artist and the crowd play an instrumental part in the success of the parade.
Capturing the enthusiasm of the audience was the best for the parade. Kanaval goers ranged from infants being carried in, to the most seasoned Kanaval aunties.
We got to catch up with a few people who shared their excitement in getting to see the float. Ruth is a participant who is a teacher, who has been attending for years. She said there were some rumors about who was to come, but at this point, we had to wait and see.
During our initial conversation with Ymhani, she mentioned that after a delightful family outing to Junior Kanaval on Saturday, she planned to attend and enjoy the festival with her friends today. You always know this is Brooklyn, everyone at Kanaval had their designated "Kanaval crew." The younger teenagers might sometimes travel with their friends, but we also encountered a crew that emphasized the dynamic of family attendance. As a result, they travel with their teens every year. At the end of the day, Mom shared, "It's all about having fun. We arrive together, then the kids go off and do their thing while Dad and I do ours."
A Taste of Brooklyn best eats for the Haitian culture
When it comes to food, every country was represented at the largest Caribbean cultural celebration. They came together to showcase culinary delights. But, the Haitian food vendors pulled out all the stops with their traditional dishes. This year's parade was a vibrant celebration of Haitian culture and heritage. The parade featured a variety of Haitian floats, performances, and costumes, all of which showcased the creativity and diversity of the Brooklyn community. Attendees of all ages enjoyed the festivities, from infants to seasoned Kanaval veterans. The parade was a testament to the strength and resilience of each culture, and it provided an opportunity for our community to come together and celebrate their culture. The success of the parade was made possible by the generous support of sponsors and the dedication of the organizers. The parade was a true celebration of Carribean pride and unity.
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