Caribbean culture celebrated at local music festival

SCHENECTADY, N.Y. (NEWS10) - The Hamilton Hill Arts Center hosted its second event of a three-part Culture Fest series. The music festival took place at the Jerry Burrell Park in Schenectady to celebrate local talent and showcase the music and culture of the Caribbean and African Diaspora.

The life and legacy of Jerry Burrell, a talented artist and philanthropist, was honored through dance, music, and community spirit brought on by Culture Fest that took place on Saturday from 2-6 p.m.

Those in attendance, like Crystel Nelson, remember Burrell for his significant impact on Schenectady.

 "They named the park after him, and he was a great artist and a peaceful person," Nelson said.

With the help of local vendors, food spots, community organizations, and those like Janiya Minor; the park was filled with Caribbean culture for this part of the event series.

"I am going to be doing the steelpans, and we are going to have people come up and try them out; playing into some good instrumentals and beats," Minor said. "And just get people feeling the vibes and the true Caribbean culture."

The first part of the event series took place on July 13 and featured Hip Hop & R&B Night, but Saturday was about Caribbean culture.

"Here at the Caribbean fest, everybody is out, we just had a whine contest," Minor said. "The Trinidad crew, they just won the whine contest. So its going to be amazing."

Rachel Conn, the Executive Director of the Hamilton Hill Arts Center, emphasized the importance of celebrating the rich cultural heritage and artistic talent within the community.

"This festival is a testament to the spirit of unity and inclusivity that defines Schenectady, and we invite everyone to join us in celebrating diversity and community pride," Conn said.

The last part of the series will be taking place on September 14 with a Latin Night theme.