More than 22,000 attend return of Caribbean Night Long Island after a decade
Keznamdi, Charly Black and Terry Gajraj headlined the free concert at Eisenhower Park, and organisers plan to make it an annual event.
NEW YORK, United States. More than 22,000 people gathered at Eisenhower Park in East Meadow, Long Island, on July 17 as Caribbean Night LI returned after more than a decade, making it one of the largest celebrations of Caribbean culture in Long Island's history.
Presented by Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman and Caribbean Connections Media, the free event drew families from Long Island, New York City and across the Tri-State area for an evening of music, food and cultural pride.
Reggae, dancehall and Guyanese classics
The lineup featured Grammy Award-winning reggae artist Keznamdi, dancehall star Charly Black, Guyanese music legend Terry Gajraj, Guyanese-American artist Spincity Chris and reggae performer Ziondelion, performing before a sea of waving national flags.
"This shows the power of the Caribbean and the diaspora," Keznamdi said after his set. "We are not small."
The Jamaican artist said playing a free concert was deliberate, because music should remain accessible to the communities that inspire it. "I always stay grassroots," he said. "This is about real music, family, and fun."
Thousands danced to Charly Black's international hits, while Gajraj united Guyanese attendees with well-loved classics. Spincity Chris and Ziondelion represented a new generation of Caribbean artists.
Beyond the stage, festivalgoers explored dozens of Caribbean food vendors, cultural exhibits, local businesses and family activities.
'More than a concert'
Executive producer Jennifer Rampersaud said the response exceeded organisers' expectations.
"Seeing thousands of Caribbean flags waving together was a powerful reminder that our community is strong, united and deserves to be celebrated on this scale," she said.
"This was more than a concert," Rampersaud added. "It was a movement."
Organisers credited Nassau County officials, sponsors, vendors and volunteers, and announced plans to make Caribbean Night LI an annual tradition. The event was produced by Rampersaud, Ray Thomas and Haniff Russell.
