What to expect at the 2024 West Indian Day Parade

BROOKLYN, N.Y. (PIX11) -- Get ready to jump and wave down Eastern Parkway for the West Indian American Day Carnival on Monday. 

The biggest celebration of Caribbean culture and heritage in New York City will take over Brooklyn for the 57th year. 

Revelers in dazzling costumes will take to the streets for the seven-hour parade starting at 10 a.m. Festival goers will be treated to the sounds of steelpan bands, energetic performances and a variety of Caribbean food and music throughout the day. 

For those planning to join the festivities, here’s everything you need to know.

What does the parade celebrate?

The annual celebration recognizes the importance of Caribbean communities to the cultural fabric of New York City. It’s meant to highlight the heritage and artistic expression of the Caribbean diaspora while also fostering a sense of unity among attendees. 

Mas Bands are a staple of carnival in which people marching in the parade dress in costumes adorned with beads and feathers that help to portray a theme or story. “Playing mas” as it’s referred to, goes back to the days of slavery when those on the plantation derived their own versions of their masters' masquerade balls. 

What is J’ouvert?

The parade is preceded by J’Ouvert, a festival that begins in the morning and celebrates the end of slavery. The term comes from the French phrase "jour ouvert," which appropriately means daybreak or morning. Similar to the parade, steel band music is the dominant sound of J’Ouvert. The costumes worn are also meant to show the evil of slavery and to mock the slave masters of the time. 

What is the parade route?

The parade will primarily run down Eastern Parkway but will have multiple road closures around Grand Army Plaza. Check here for the full route.

What will the weather be like?

So far Monday is expected to be perfect weather for the parade with mostly sunny skies and a pleasant high of 78 degrees in the city.

Where can I watch?

Festivalgoers are welcome to watch from the sidelines along Eastern Parkway but for those who prefer to enjoy the party at home, PIX11 will broadcast the parade on air and online.