For the 55th year, people with backgrounds from all over the Caribbean gathered in downtown Hartford recently to take part in the West Indian Independence Celebration.
Most of the fun centered on the spicy foods found throughout the region, with dozens of vendors attending the party in Bushnell Park.
Vila Henri, who comes from Jamaica, was loaded up with bottles of ginger beer and a sorrel drink, both of which she made herself. The ginger beer is non-alcoholic, made from one of the world’s most popular spices. The sorrel drink is a red tea made from the buds of the hibiscus plant. Henri says it reminds her of Christmas, sweet potato pudding, and rum cake.
Many of the vendors were wondering if they had brought enough food to satisfy festival-goers. One who was concerned was Jackie Foster, who was offering homemade coconut drops candy along with fresh produce, including mangoes. Rohan Brammer, whose Jamaican grandmother taught him to cook, brought five pork shoulders and ten cases of chicken with him, and was not sure that would be enough due to the high turnout.
Organizers estimated last year's crowds at 10,000 to 15,000 attendees, and an estimated 20,000 attended this year. People came to celebrate their nationalities of Trinidadian, Jamaican, Guyanese, and Curaçaoan, In addition to food, there was a parade and a free concert, featuring the lively music of the Caribbean nations.
Outdoor events are perfect places for organizers to hang colorful Banners to add to the fun.
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