2025 West Indian Day Parade and J'Ouvert Celebration in Brooklyn: Essential Information
The West Indian Day Parade, a grand celebration of Caribbean culture, is set to take place on Monday, Sept. 1, marking the grand finale of NY Carnival Week. This year's theme, "Vive le Carnival," promises an unforgettable experience.
The parade will commence at 10 a.m. and continue until 6 p.m., transforming Eastern Parkway into a moving festival. Stunningly decorated floats, carrying carnival bands, will make their way through the streets, accompanied by the rhythmic beats of music.
Bunji Garlin, a renowned artist, will be the one composing the music for the J'Ouvert Fest before the parade this year. J'Ouvert, an early-morning celebration, takes place from 6 a.m. to 11 a.m., providing a lively start to the day.
Curtis Nelson, the executive director of Sesame Flyers International, a costume-maker and community group involved in the parade, expresses his enthusiasm for Labor Day Monday, particularly for the West Indian Day Parade. He describes the music, food, excitement, and freedom experienced during the parade as unparalleled.
NY Carnival Week is packed with a variety of events. The nearly sold-out Soca Fest Music Festival will take place on Friday, followed by Panorama, a steelpan drum competition on Saturday, which is now sold out. Unlike the main event, these events during NY Carnival Week are ticketed and take place at the Brooklyn Museum.
Saturday also sees the occurrence of Junior Carnival, a family-friendly event with live performances, youth activities, and a back-to-school giveaway. The week concludes with the Ultimate Fete, a rum and music celebration on Sunday.
The West Indian Day Parade has been held annually since 1969, and this year, the masqueraders will don colorfully and sensually costumed outfits, adding to the vibrant atmosphere of the event. The parade will head west along Eastern Parkway from Utica Avenue to Grand Army Plaza, promising a spectacle not to be missed.
As the streets close for the parade occasion, New Yorkers and visitors alike are invited to immerse themselves in the rich culture, music, and tradition of the West Indian Day Parade.
