Eastern Parkway rocked to the rhythm of soca and reggaeton on Labor Day as thousands flooded the heart of Brooklyn to celebrate Caribbean American culture by watching and participating in the 58th annual West Indian American Day Parade.
Festivalgoers could spot mayoral candidates, including Mayor Eric Adams, Zohran Mamdani, who won the Democratic primary in June, as well as Andrew Cuomo and Curtis Sliwa. The day also marked the unofficial kickoff to two months of campaigning ahead of the November election.
Though their presence resulted in heightened police presence, the festivities were marred by violence, as six people were shot and one was stabbed during the parade.
Artists performed exuberant dances for parade revelers. (Credit: Agnė Toločkaitė)
Participants colored the Carnival with vibrant costumes. (Credit: Agnė Toločkaitė)
The Brooklyn United Music and Arts Center showcased a lineup of talented young drummers. (Credit: Agnė Toločkaitė)
The Brooklyn United Music and Arts Center also highlighted a lineup of talented young dancers. (Credit: Agnė Toločkaitė)
The parade also featured UniverSoul Circus performers and stilt walkers. (Credit: Agnė Toločkaitė)
The 58th annual West Indian American Day Parade coincoincided with Mayor Eric Adams’ birthday. (Credit: Agnė Toločkaitė)
Independent candidate Andrew Cuomo was greeted with many cheers. (Credit: Agnė Toločkaitė)
Republican mayoral candidate Curtis Sliwa wore his signature red beret on the parade route. (Credit: Agnė Toločkaitė)
About the author(s)
Agnė Toločkaitė is an MS visual track student at Columbia Journalism School covering labor, culture, business and politics. She is from Lithuania and her work has appeared in LRT, CNBC and the Jerusalem Report.