Vibrant costumes, delicious food, and island music. PrideFête is back for its third year celebrating the Caribbean's LGBTQ spirit.
Starting Aug. 10, Richardson Park in Wilton Manors will be party central for Caribbean culture. Returning as host for the third straight year. The self-described cultural curator has lived all over and absorbed different cultures. PrideFête is a natural fit for her.
“There is a Caribbean Pride in New York every year. The Caribbean culture is one where the diaspora there is invisible. During the festival, you get to see the Trinidadians, the Jamaicans, the West Indians. It is colossal. PrideFête is another answer to that call to commune and celebrate together.”
While many nations of the sprawling Caribbean archipelago share some cultural similarities, relics from colonialism, they each have their own cultures touchstones.
Jameer Baptiste, a proud Haitian-Trinidadian American, is the HOTspots Event Division Director and in charge of the event. He says this party, now in its third year, is more important than ever.
“In a world of intolerance, PrideFête exists as a LGBTQ+ Caribbean safe haven. The only one currently in Florida. Caribbean culture is the essence of the festival, while self-expression and freedom to be oneself is the cornerstone.”
For Yearwood, the confluence of the Caribbean and queer cultures is the most exciting part of the night.
“Caribbean people want to commune and celebrate together. Being queer is even more beautiful because queer folks who are Caribbean are some of the most endangered. There is a lot of violence. For them to have a space to express and celebrate safely is important, is needed. I am glad to be a part of it.”
The party runs from 6-11 p.m. Tickets are $7 in advance through their website, PrideFete.lgbt. Day-of tickets are $10. VIP is $55 in advance and $75 day of. VIP includes indoor A/C, five drinks, and food by Ronnie’s Bake Shop featuring Trinidadian Cuisine.
