The vibrant pulse of Jamaica and the Caribbean diaspora returned to Waryas Park in Poughkeepsie last weekend for the first time in 15 years, as residents and visitors celebrated the long-awaited revival of the Caribbean Festival—a colorful, music-filled, and culturally rich event led by the Caribbean Association of the Hudson Valley.
Mayor Yvonne D. Flowers, whose vision and leadership helped make the event a reality, described the day as “phenomenal and long overdue.”
“We all enjoyed the sounds of live music, amazing food, the jerk chicken contest, and the colorful costumes,” she shared. “The day was full of positive energy and pride. Events like this are cherished in our city because they unite us, inspire us, and showcase the beautiful diversity that makes our community so special. We thank the Caribbean Fest 2025 team for their hard work in making the event a huge success.”
Planning began in February, and by April, the Caribbean Association was officially established. Mayor Flowers, who first envisioned the festival’s return during her time as a city council member, was vital in helping the organizing team secure permits and city approval. The association’s core team included Councilman Christopher Grant and members Vassell G. O’Gilvie, Collin Miller, Delroy Clarke, Adrian Wedderburn, Tijuana Vann, and Winston Strachan.
“This was an excellent show of support from the community at large,” said Jamaican-born O’Gilvie.
Festival goers, waving their Jamaican flags to celebrate the country’s emancipation and Independence enjoyed a vibrant lineup of DJs and live music by The Big Takeover, a local reggae and world music band that energized the crowd with reggae, ska and dancehall favorites including Sophia George’s 1986 hit ‘Girlie Girlie,’ Bob Marley’s ‘Iron Zion’ and their own original tune ‘Spilling Water.’ Other highlights included a costume contest, face painting, a bouncy house, and various vendors and activities. It was a free, family-friendly event designed to celebrate Jamaican/Caribbean culture in the Hudson Valley community.
Adding a layer of historical significance, O’Gilvie noted the presence of Frederick Douglass’ great-grandson, a poignant moment as Douglass delivered a speech on Caribbean emancipation in Poughkeepsie back in 1858. Douglas was an American social reformer, abolitionist, orator, writer, and statesman who was a leader of the movement for African-American civil rights in the 19th century. In addition to Mayor Flowers, other notable attendees included City Administrator Joseph Donat and Sir Walford, a popular MC from Albany’s 90.9FM WCDB.
Looking ahead, Mayor Flowers reaffirmed her commitment to cultural inclusivity, saying, “I will continue to support the Caribbean community just as we do for all our diverse populations in Poughkeepsie. We will keep promoting initiatives that foster unity, cultural awareness, and respect for one another.”
She also emphasized the economic and social contributions of Caribbean resident,s sharing, “There are numerous Caribbean business owners who contribute to the growth and vitality of our city. Many residents from the Caribbean community give back through programs like free book bag giveaways, summer soccer camps, and food and healthcare assistance. Caribbean culture is truly woven into the fabric of our city and is fully embraced and appreciated.”
This year’s successful event was supported by a generous group of sponsors including Steven Neshiewat, Attorney at Law; Golden Krust Restaurant; Sylvia’s Restaurant; Clarke Realty; TEG Credit Union; Millennium Home Care; McHoul Funeral Home; Kings Fashions; Hudson Valley Dynamic Counseling LCSW PC; New Hope Ambulette; DC & G Mechanical; Governess Restaurant and Rhodes Funeral Home.
