Photo by Patty Bradley.
Dancers perform at the 2016 Caribbean Festival.
This year’s Caribbean Festival is getting a little rebranding.
The sixth annual Caribbean Festival, now known as the Magic City Caribbean Food and Music Festival, will be held from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. on June 10 at Linn Park. The popular family-friendly event is free and will feature a day of music, dancing and costumes, in addition to Caribbean food and local vendors.
Pauline J. Ford, the founder and past president of Central Alabama Caribbean American Organization (CACAO), said attendees should expect a true taste of the Caribbean.
Entertainment this year will include a 15-piece steel band, live reggae music and a parade at 1 p.m. featuring brightly dressed performers. The public is encouraged to participate in aspects of the festival such as line dancing and Caribbean food tastings.
“We presently live in an age when diversity and cultural inclusion is being highlighted,” Ford said. “Given the history of the region, we are pleased that our festival presents a truly diverse and inclusive event to the citizens of Birmingham where everyone is welcome regardless of race, creed or color.”
The Magic City Caribbean Food and Music Festival will conclude with the “One Love” Bob Marley anthem, which is particularly special since one of his daughters, Imani Marley, will be present at the park for the festival.
For more information, go to cacaoonline.org.