BROOKLYN, N.Y. — Organizers of the inaugural Jamaica Rising Day Parade announced an updated route for Saturday’s event. Strong public interest prompted preparations for a larger-than-expected crowd. The change was recommended by city officials and public safety agencies to help manage attendance and support a safe, orderly celebration.
Jamaican communities, Caribbean organizations and supporters across New York and beyond have shown widespread interest in the first-year parade, organizers said.
“The response has been incredible. The first Jamaica Rising Day Parade has grown beyond what anyone imagined,” organizers said.
Dr. Bill Tinglin, chairman of the Founding Committee, said the response reflects the significance of the moment. “This movement has gone viral, and we’re on track to make history with one of the biggest first-year Caribbean parades New York has ever seen,” Tinglin said.
Organizers said they have worked with city officials and public safety agencies to adjust logistics for the anticipated crowd. Meanwhile, they have preserved the parade’s central focus on culture, heritage and community.
“The parade will now begin at Church Avenue and Ocean Avenue, proceed north on Ocean Avenue, and conclude at Lincoln Place near Empire Boulevard,” said Dr. Lawman Lynch, vice chairman of the Founding Committee.
The parade begins at 10 a.m. Organizers canceled the previously planned post-parade block party and will place entertainment and celebratory activities along the parade route so attendees can participate throughout the event and help maintain crowd flow.
“This decision was made based on recommendations from public safety officials so we can ensure the proper logistics, security and infrastructure are in place for what promises to be a historic celebration and position the event for even greater success in the years ahead,” organizers said.
The Jamaica Rising Day Parade celebrates Jamaican culture, heritage and unity. It also recognizes the contributions of Jamaicans to New York and communities around the world. Organizers are encouraging Jamaicans, friends of Jamaica and supporters of the island’s culture to attend.
“Bring your Jamaican flags. Bring your good vibes. Bring your family. Bring the kids. Bring your friends,” said Lynch, vice chairman of the Founding Committee and event director. “If you love Jamaica, if you’re Jamaican by birth, Jamaican by heritage or simply Jamaican by association, this celebration is for you.”
On Saturday, Brooklyn streets will showcase Jamaican culture, music and Caribbean pride as organizers invite attendees to wear Jamaican colors and take part in the inaugural celebration.
Event Details
Event: Inaugural Jamaica Rising Day Parade
Date: Saturday
Time: 10 a.m.
Updated route: Church Avenue and Ocean Avenue, north on Ocean Avenue, ending at Lincoln Place near Empire Boulevard
Organizers encourage attendees to arrive early, follow posted guidance and comply with directions from public safety personnel along the route.
