Caribbean Night returns to Long Island’s Eisenhower Park after more than a decade
The free July 17 event, headlined by Grammy winner Keznamdi with Charly Black and Terry Gajraj, aims to reflect Long Island’s growing Caribbean population.
NEW YORK, United States. Caribbean Night Long Island is returning to Eisenhower Park for the first time in more than a decade, bringing Caribbean music, food and culture back to one of Nassau County’s largest public spaces.
The free event takes place on July 17, 2026, from 5.30pm to 9.30pm. It is produced by Jennifer Rampersaud, Hanif Russell and Ray Thomas in partnership with Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman and Caribbean Connections Media.
Rampersaud said the revival reflects Long Island’s growing Caribbean population. “It’s not just a concert,” she said. “It’s about culture, food, family, and making people feel at home.”
The line-up
Grammy Award-winning reggae artist Keznamdi headlines, joined by dancehall artist Charly Black and Terry Gajraj, the “Guyanese Babu”, along with SpinCityChris, Ziondelion, Noah Powa and DJs Roy and Noirie.
The festival will also feature food vendors representing several islands, a curry cook-off, children’s activities and cultural showcases.
Filling a gap
Rampersaud said the event grew out of conversations between artists and local organisers who saw a lack of large-scale Caribbean cultural programming in Nassau County during the summer.
Organisers estimate attendance could exceed 10,000, with the park’s amphitheatre-style layout allowing performances to be seen across the grounds.
Entry is free, with food and goods on sale. Sponsors and vendors are being accepted, and all food vendors must meet county permitting and health regulations. Organisers said programming would be designed for all ages.
They hope the event will become an annual tradition. “This is something we don’t want to see disappear again,” Rampersaud said. “We want it to grow, year after year.”
