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In Tampa, Florida, Perry Harvey Sr. Park came alive this weekend with the vibrant rhythms and spirited energy of the 21st annual Tampa Bay Caribbean Carnival. This much-anticipated event celebrated the rich tapestry of Caribbean culture through a day brimming with food, music, and community spirit.
Organized by Tampa Caribbean Festival Inc., the park was a kaleidoscope of Caribbean traditions, featuring vibrant costumes, authentic cuisine, and pulsating music that had everyone on their feet.
Jennifer George, one of the event’s co-founders hailing from Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, emphasized the inclusivity of the carnival. “This celebration goes beyond Caribbean roots,” George explained. “It’s a fusion with American culture—embracing the Caribbean American identity. Everyone is part of this cultural mosaic.”
Despite the intense heat on Saturday, the festival-goers didn’t miss a beat, proudly waving their flags and dazzling in ornate costumes as they danced to the lively tunes from across the Caribbean, making their way through the park.
The celebration turned up the heat on an already scorching Saturday, with attendees waving flags, dancing in elaborate costumes, and moving through the park to music from across the Caribbean.
But George and her husband, co-founder Anthony George, who is from Trinidad and Tobago, said the event represents something deeper than entertainment.
“It’s the resilience of the people and the culture that’s bred in our spirit,” Anthony George said.
That message of resilience was echoed by Lorna Fernandes, a Jamaican native, who pointed to her country’s recovery efforts following Category 5 Hurricane Melissa last fall.
“We’re going to carry on carnival and represent the island and let everybody know that we stand behind it, with or without a Category 5 hurricane. We’re standing strong and standing great together,” Fernandes said.
The celebration continues Sunday with Jouvert at River Tower Park, featuring music trucks, food, and dancing from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., continuing the weekend-long showcase of Caribbean culture.