Every year, as summer draws to a close, the vibrant and exciting West Indian Day Parade takes center stage in Brooklyn, NY, along the iconic Eastern Parkway. This celebration of West Indian culture brings together people from across the Caribbean to honor their heritage, traditions, and vibrant community spirit. It’s a day filled with music, dancing, food, and an outpouring of pride—one of the most colorful and energetic events in New York City’s cultural calendar.

This year, I had the honor of being hired by NYS Assembly Member Stefani L. Zinerman to document her participation in the parade. Stefani, along with her constituents, proudly marched down Eastern Parkway with her very first float, in the celebration of her district’s diverse West Indian community.

For me, the highlights of the parade are always the same: the stunning richness of colors from the costumes, the irresistible rhythms of calypso and soca music that fill the air, the infectious energy of dancers and revelers moving to the beat, and the delicious array of Caribbean food that tempts all the senses. The entire atmosphere is one of joy and unity, as people from all walks of life come together to celebrate their shared history and vibrant cultures.

As a photographer, my goal for this project was simple: to capture the raw energy, the excitement, and the collective sense of pride that radiates throughout the parade. The photos I’ve taken aim to encapsulate the dynamic spirit of the day—those moments when the music, the people, and the atmosphere come together in a way that words alone cannot describe. I hope that, through these images, you can feel the heartbeat of the celebration, the joy of the dancers, the laughter in the air, and the sense of community that defines the West Indian Day Parade.

Enjoy the visuals, and may they transport you to the heart of Brooklyn on this unforgettable day! To view the remaining photos, go to the album here.