‘Tapestry of Culture’ as Afro-CariBrant festival returns to Paris

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There was a lot of music and dancing in Lion’s Park in Paris on Saturday.

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But most of all there was a lot of joy as thousands gathered for the second annual Afro-CariBrant festival.

“This is amazing,” said Stef-Han Singh, who was on and off the Walter Williams Amphitheatre stage leading the crowd in music and singing on Saturday evening. “There are so many different cultures represented here, so much energy.”

Singh said the rain, which was off and on throughout the day, didn’t stop people from enjoying everything the festival had to offer.

Born and raised in Brantford, Singh said the festival is an opportunity for people in Brantford, Brant County and beyond to celebrate their Caribbean and African culture.

Vendors and those attending the festival have roots in many different countries including Trinidad and Tobago, Jamaica, Dominican Republic, Uganda and South Africa to name just a few.

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For Singh and his sister Sierrah, who went to Brantford Collegiate Institute, the festival was an opportunity to celebrate their Trinidadian roots. Both had prominent roles in the festival.

Sierrah, dressed in bright blue Trinidadian regalia, was surrounded by admirers and spent most of her day posing for photos and leading the dancing.

Presented by Darmont GivesBack, the festival attracted an estimated 4,000 people throughout the day and more than 40 vendors including JK’s Restaurant and Patio, a Jamaican restaurant, in Simcoe.

Jerk chicken, jerk pork, Jamaican patties, fried chicken and fish were among the offerings available throughout the day. Other vendors sold jewelry, crafts and clothing.

But later Saturday, when the sun was out and the crest of a rainbow could be seen from the park, the festival was all about the dancing.

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Sierrah led a crowd through the park to the Amphitheatre where people of all ages gathered to dance.

Tobi Adedayo and Essay Folami, who helped organize the festival, were happy with the attendance and support from the community.

“The vendors are happy so we’re happy,” Adedayo said. “It’s so nice to see so many Afro-Caribbean countries represented here.

“It is a tapestry of culture.”

Adedayo said the festival gives people a chance to experience the traditions, stories and creativity that make the communities of Brantford and Brant so vibrant.

By embracing and celebrating differences, the festival can help create a more inclusive and supportive environment for everyone. Fostering diversity is crucial for the growth and harmony of communities, Adedayo said.

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The festival plays a vital role in breaking down cultural barriers and promoting mutual understanding.

Adedayo said the festival received strong support from the County of Brant. Mayor David Bailey attended the event, spoke to the crowd and posed for photographs with performers and visitors.

A not-for-profit organization Darmont GivesBack seeks to enhance the well-being of individuals and communities through education, health equal opportunities and community living. It aims to foster a more compassionate, equitable and empowered society by addressing key societal issues and participating in community development.

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