On Tuesday, June 10, the heart of Times Square burst into joyful celebration as Caribbean rhythms and colors took over one of the world’s most iconic locations. The event, titled “A Caribbean Fete in Times Square,” was presented by I AM CARIBBEING in partnership with TSQ Live, drawing thousands of people to honor Caribbean American Heritage Month.
According to official Times Square sources, the gathering reached full capacity, making it a truly historic moment for the Caribbean community and its supporters.
For two unforgettable hours of revelry, Caribbean music, movement and pride filled one of the world’s most recognisable entertainment landmarks. DJ Private Ryan and his music comrade, Kevin Crown, delivered an electrifying set that had the crowd waving flags, dancing and celebrating to the vibrant sounds of Soca, Reggae, Kompa, Dancehall and more. Trinidad Killa’s surprise performance also brought a burst of high-energy Soca that heightened the excitement and momentum of the occasion. The celebration concluded on a high note with Machel Montano Road March-winning hit “Pardy” leaving the crowd exhilarated and uplifted.
“Performing in Times Square to represent my country and Caribbean Culture was nothing short of amazing and iconic. Being able to play for so many people in a world-renowned space such as Times Square in New York is one of those once-in-a-lifetime opportunities and experiences,” said Trinidad and Tobago-born DJ Private Ryan immediately after the showcase, where he was awarded a proclamation from the City of New York.
The celebration attracted a multigenerational and multinational audience, from elders to young children, all united in their pride for their heritage. In addition to the young and young-at-heart, attendees from outside the Caribbean community also took part in the festivities, embracing the spirit of the event. Organisers shared Caribbean-themed bandanas with non-Caribbean guests, creating a warm and inclusive atmosphere that welcomed patrons to share in the significance of the occasion.
“A Caribbean Fete in Times Square was not only culturally significant but historic for the Caribbean community in NYC, the Diaspora and the region,” said Shelley Worrell, Founder of I AM CARIBBEING and Little Caribbean NYC. Noting the heartwarming and beautiful moments of seeing national flags from across the Caribbean represented in Times Square, Worrell explained that this was an exemplary display of regional unity. “From DJ Private Ryan’s infectious set of soca, bouyon, dancehall and zouk to Kevin Crown’s hypnotizing command of the crowd, the Caribbean pulse created a viral buzz across social media platforms such as TikTok, Instagram and Twitter.”
“A Caribbean Fete in Times Square” marks a groundbreaking moment as the first event of its kind during Caribbean American Heritage Month, opening a new chapter for Caribbean cultural visibility not only in New York but across the globe.
