West Indian Day Carnival 2020 Goes Virtual: What You Need To Know

BROOKLYN, NY — New York's Carnival celebrations will fill a "virtual road" this year instead of the streets of Brooklyn.

The West Indian American Day Carnival Association has announced plans for two virtual events to replace its usual Labor Day Weekend parade through Crown Heights.

The virtual celebrations will let revelers join in the Caribbean Carnival from a safe distance as the coronavirus crisis continues to limit large in-person events.

"[It's] an experience that requires No curtain, No fancy stage, just pure LOVE and Vibes," organizers wrote.

The celebration will kick off with a virtual music festival on Friday evening and continue with a day-long event on Monday.

The usual kick-off celebration of the Carnival celebrations, the J'Ouvert parade, will also take place on Monday, though in a new format given the coronavirus pandemic. Instead of a parade, J'Ouvert will include a breakfast and ceremony for essential workers and performers who have been lost to the virus.

Here's what to know about the West Indian Day virtual celebrations:

• Friday, Sept. 4
  • When: 8 p.m. to 11 p.m.
  • Where: Virtual admission here.
  • What: The festival will be hosted by MC Wassy and Giselle D Wassi One. It will include performances by Tabou Combo, Kes the Band, Nailah Blackman, Teddyson John, Farmer Nappy, DJ Stakz and more. Soca, Afrobeats, Reggae and Kompa sounds will be featured.

• Monday, Sept. 7
  • 9 to 10 a.m.: A celebration of "supporters, elected officials, essential workers and those we lost as Virtual Marshals this year." Tune in through Facebook or Instagram, @wiadca.
  • 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.: Popular DJ performances, costumes, masqueraders and DIY designs through Zoom. Register for a link to join here.

• More info:
  • This is a family friendly event. Please no vulgarities or indecent exposure.
  • All ages welcome.
  • Be creative. Dress your space!
  • Take lots of pics and share with us or tell us ‘What NY Carnival means to You’ on the Media Wall.
  • Find out more on the West Indian Carnival Association website.