Essex, Maryland lit up with the sounds, flavors, and spirit of the Caribbean and African diaspora at out first Afro-Caribbean Festival. It was an unforgettable day full of vibrant music, bold food, community pride — and lots of dancing!
A Soundtrack of Joy
Live performances kept the energy high all afternoon. Clarence Ward III & Dat Feel Good Jazz Band brought their signature blend of smooth jazz and soulful funk to the stage, creating the perfect laid-back vibe to kick off the celebration.
Later, the infectious rhythms of the Trinidad & Tobago Baltimore Steel Orchestra transported the crowd straight to the islands, with their masterful steel pan performance drawing cheers, dancing, and big smiles all around.
A Culinary Celebration
The festival brought together a feast of Afro-Caribbean flavor, with food trucks and stalls serving up mouthwatering bites:
- Reid’s Jerk Shack – Spicy, smoky Jamaican classics like jerk chicken and rice & peas
- Bully Boss Burger – Gourmet burgers with Caribbean flair
- Southern N Smoked – Slow-cooked Southern BBQ with island-inspired twists
- SnoBlast DMV – Bright and refreshing shaved ice, perfect for a fall day in the sun
Community Vendors & Resource Powerhouses
Beyond food and entertainment, the Afro-Caribbean Festival was a space for connection, empowerment, and small business celebration. Attendees explored local vendors, wellness brands, nonprofits, and community resources — all reflecting the cultural richness and entrepreneurial spirit of Essex.
Community Organizations & Services:
- Essex CDC
- Our Lady of Mt. Carmel School
- Voter Registration – Promoting civic engagement
- Young Queens in Training Inc. – Empowering youth
- Life Builders Church – Providing food distribution
- Community Assistance Network (CAN)
- Baltimore County Dept. of Economic & Workforce Development
- AfriThrive – Supporting immigrant communities
Vendors & Local Businesses:
- Hot Lips Fruit Infused Hot Sauce
- A Sweeet Village Suites
- Ayoni Wellness
- Teena’s Kitchen
- Kre8tive Kidz Boutique
- Kemetic Botanicals
- Coppa Momma Healing
- Scented by Shellie
- Ladybugkaccessities1212
Whether you came to dance, eat, shop, or learn, there was something for everyone.
A Celebration of Culture & Community
The Afro-Caribbean Festival was more than just an event — it was a moment of cultural pride, community building, and joyful connection. Families, friends, and neighbors gathered to honor the vibrant traditions of the African and Caribbean diasporas and the powerful ways those cultures continue to shape Essex today.
With live music, local food, and deep community roots, this festival set the stage for what we hope becomes an annual tradition. Thanks to everyone who came out, shared their talents, and helped make the day unforgettable.
We can’t wait to see you next year!
