In celebration of the 25th annual National Caribbean American Heritage Month, New Orleans once again brings together culture, cuisine, and creativity in an event that honors the vibrant Caribbean diaspora.
This year marks only the second annual Caribbean Fête in Tremé but excitement is building with the inclusion of high-profile guests and dynamic performances. As the event commemorates 25 Caribbean nations, the celebration will conclude with a Parade of Flags, a visually stunning tribute to the cultural diversity that connects communities across seas and generations.
The Fête proudly features Lisa Farrer, known as “Carnival Aunty.” A Breast Cancer Awareness advocate with a deep love of Caribbean carnival, Lisa has been a long-standing supporter of Bayou Bacchanal, New Orleans’ original Caribbean Carnival parade, which has celebrated Caribbean culture in the Crescent City for over two decades. This year, Lisa will debut the 2025 Bayou Bacchanal signature costume designed by Risquay. Lisa and the Tremé Kids will present a vibrant “Parade of Flags.”
“Bayou Bacchanal has long been the heartbeat of Caribbean celebration in New Orleans, and this event builds on that powerful legacy,” says Marilyn LaForce, President of Friends of Culture, in a press release.
Joining the Fête is Larry Morrow, celebrated entrepreneur and restaurateur of the Morrow Group, who will debut “Spicy Mango,” a new Caribbean-New Orleans themed restaurant set to open later this summer on Frenchmen Street. Mr. Morrow, also the 2024 King of the Six Ward Steppers, represents a unique link between Caribbean heritage and local Tremé traditions.
Adding an international dimension, legendary drummer Zohar and his Free Spirit Stilt Dancers, aged 4 to 17, will offer a dynamic performance rooted in African and Caribbean rhythm traditions. Their artistry bridges continents and generations, honoring the musical roots of the diaspora through a high-energy show that embodies “edutainment” — education through entertainment.
New this year is an Afro-Latin dance showcase by NOLA Fleaux, highlighting shared rhythms from Cuba, Haiti, Puerto Rico, and the Dominican Republic—celebrating the African diaspora’s rich cultural ties through movement and joy.
Additionally, local event coordinator Dennis Warren II of HOTT RODD Productions will feature custom cars themed to reflect the vibrant colors found in the flags of each Caribbean nation. This contribution also honors his own family ties to the Caribbean. Warren’s uncle, Rupert Henry, grew up on the island of Antigua, where he began hand-crafting steel pans at the age of 11 in the mid-1940s. He later headlined at the Tropicana in Las Vegas and toured with musician David Lee Roth.
Finally, the festival welcomes the return of Lady Peppertree, a dual talent as both executive chef of Trinidadian cuisine and a celebrated DJ. She will serve authentic dishes and vibrant Caribbean music to lead our Parade of Flags.
“We are super excited to bring this event back Under the Bridge” connecting New Orleans to her roots and highlighting some fantastic similarities,” says, Nyree Ramsey, Executive Director of the Ujamaa EDC.
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