BINGHAMTON, N.Y. (WIVT/WBGH) – Recreation Park will be alive with Caribbean culture this weekend as an uplifting and vibrant festival returns for its third year.
The annual Binghamton Caribbean Carnival will be held on Saturday. The event celebrates the diversity and creativity of the Caribbean communities through activities, entertainment, and an abundance of different foods.
Music will be provided by world renowned reggae producer and DJ Bobby Konders and his partner Lando Hype as well as Mr. Easy, Push400, and local artist DJ Izm. Dancer Denise Belfon, the “Queen of Wine”, will be performing as well.
There will also be several vendors.
Local businesswomen Marsha Friedman, Serita Thompson, and Sulaiminah Burns brought the carnival to Binghamton in 2021.
They say the event evolves and gets bigger and better every year.
“Everybody comes out and enjoys themselves basically. It’s a moment to relax, listen to great music. Caribbean Carnival is a different culture and that’s something new in Binghamton which we very rarely experience. It’s just a joyous moment,” said Thompson.
“We just appreciate everyone so much for supporting us. This is our third annual one and were able to keep doing this because you guys come out and you guys’ support and we love y’all for that,” said Burns.
Friedman, Thompson, and Burns all have ties to New York City and were inspired by the City’s carnival when bringing the event to the local area.
Friedman says they definitely brought the New York City vibe to Binghamton.
The Caribbean Carnival is a longstanding tradition that celebrates freedom and raises awareness for the Caribbean heritage.
Friedman says the event is all about the love for the culture as well as the significance behind the celebration.
“Haiti is going through hard times at this time, has been going through tough times. When you celebrate your culture, you don’t put things away but for right now, at this moment, we continue to pray but at this moment we’re going to celebrate with joy and love, laughter, food,” said Friedman.
The Carnival will run from 4 to 8 p.m. Following the carnival, there will be an after party at Caribbean Patty World until 1 a.m.
Organizers would like to thank Just Breathe for sponsoring the event. They would also like to thank Nyran Thompson.
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