Guide to the West Indian Day Parade 2016

The West Indian Day Parade 2016 and carnival is one of the top New York attractions this summer, with the event drawing close to two million people to Crown Heights during Labor Day weekend. (So, yeah, you could consider this the most exciting Labor Day Parade NYC has to offer). Instead of spending your day off at one many New York beaches, consider immersing yourself in rich Caribbean culture and heritage—it’s bound to be one of the best parties in New York this year.

RECOMMENDED: See more things to do on Labor Day weekend

When is the West Indian Day Parade?

The West Indian Day Parade is Monday, September 5, 2016. The march starts at 11am.

Where is the West Indian Day Parade?

During the seven-hour New York carnival, steel-pan and calypso bands in elaborate costumes march down Eastern Parkway, and vendors sell homestyle island grub along the route in Crown Heights, Brooklyn.

What can you do before the West Indian Day Parade?

The pre-parade parties begin before dawn with J’ouvert (daybreak in French), an irreverent festival held before the parade.

What happens during the West Indian Day Parade?

Revelers often dress up as political figures or celebrities and throw powdered paint at each other, while steel drums and whistles provide the celebratory soundtrack.