The Caribbean Association of Georgia, Inc., (CAG) will celebrate the 10th Annual McDonough Caribbean Cultural Festival on Saturday, June 25 from 1 until 8 p.m. at Avalon Park. The family-friendly event is free and open to the public. This year CAG will not only celebrate 10 years of hosting the festival, but the humanitarian organization will continue the tradition of bringing the largest and most highly anticipated Caribbean celebration to Atlanta’s southside. It is also the first time that the gathering will return following a two-year hiatus during the COVID-19 pandemic. Event organizers say this year’s theme is all about unity and honoring the Caribbean American culture during Caribbean American Heritage Month.
Guests will experience several unique features during the festival – among them, One Caribbean Village. One Caribbean Village will allow families to be transported to the Caribbean without leaving Henry County. CAG President, Samantha Samuels, said, “Our vision is for our guests to get an in-depth taste and appreciation for each of the Caribbean countries across our rich diaspora.” The organization hopes that One Caribbean Village will further CAG’s mission of one love, Samuels continued, “We have all endured a lot during this pandemic and we wanted this festival to be about harmony, love and plain old fun.”
Festivalgoers will also experience a music extravaganza with three of Atlanta’s top DJs, among them DJ Ezzy B followed by live performances by Reggae singing sensation, Kenne Blessin, and multi-hyphenate Reggae artist, Michael Star. Festival attendees will also witness an all-female friendly yet competitive cricket tournament. The event will have a wide variety of delicious food, treats and drinks representing islands and cultures throughout the Caribbean. The entire family will be able to shop from Caribbean vendors in fashion, jewelry and some of the best services the southside has to offer.
Moms and Dads can relax because the kids will enjoy face-paint, inflatables, games, and giveaways in the Caribbean Kid’s Zone. Health and wellness vendors will be on hand as well as the Blood Mobile, which will take life-giving donations.
This year, organizers will honor local Caribbean leaders for their humanitarian work and contributions to metro Atlanta’s Caribbean American community. CAG will present Media Personalities, Wayne Hall and DJ Chigga with awards for their commitment to charity. Long-time CAG member, Verna Muthoni, will be presented with the Lifetime Achievement Award for her tireless dedication to Caribbean arts and culture. Founders of the widely respected Atlanta Georgia Relays, Taneisha & Keith Murray, will also be honored with the Sports Pioneer Award.
Tickets are available on Eventbrite.
