#Newsflash | The Bankra Caribbean Culture Festival Is in Queens on Aug. 6
BY QEDC It's In Queens
Head to Jamaica (NY) to enjoy the wonders of the West Indies on Saturday, Aug. 6.
The Bankra Caribbean Culture Festival will take place on the lawn at York Performing Arts Center from noon to 8 pm.
Organized by Braata Productions, this eighth annual event celebrates the 60th anniversary of independence for Jamaica and Trinidad & Tobago this year.
The Braata Folk Singers headline a multi-dimensional, multi-disciplinary lineup that includes JC Lodge (Jamaica, England), Marva Newton (Trinidad & Tobago), and the CarNYval Dancers (NYC Soca).
Other activities include a drum circle, island baskets, masks, dance, arts-and-crafts, and storytelling. Youngsters can enjoy a Playzone with a West Indian focus and a Food Pavilion with cuisine from various islands in the sun.
The event is free, but donations are accepted.
A “bankra” is a large woven basket that’s often used to carry food and cultural items.
Actor/singer Andrew Clarke founded Braata Productions in May 2009. In addition to organizing events, the cultural agency promotes and showcases Caribbean and Caribbean-American artists. The word “Braata” means “more” in Jamaican English.
York Performing Arts Center is located at 94-45 Guy R. Brewer Blvd. It’s a few blocks from the Jamaica Center/Parsons Archer station for the E, J, and Z trains.
Images: Braata Productions