Island Fête spices up Pierrefonds with Caribbean celebration – Montreal | 24CA News
Dancing to reggae music beneath the solar with a drink in hand and scrumptious meals is a scene you count on to dwell in a Caribbean island.
But on Saturday, the Caribbean was delivered to Montreal’s West Island with the primary version of Island Fête.
“We were absolutely floored, we were so excited, we knew we wouldn’t miss it,” stated Maria Bisante, a West Island resident. “We’re foodies, and we love different cultures and this is a great way to experience it all.”
The first version of Island Fête was deemed as an amazing success by those that attended.
“Love it, love it, [we] don’t have to go downtown, it’s on our own island,” stated Denise Remillard, one other West Island resident.
The competition showcases the perfect the Caribbean has to supply nearer to residence.
The borough of Pierrefonds-Roxboro — one of the crucial various on the island of Montreal — performed host to the occasion.
“We count 60-70 cultural communities living in perfect harmony,” stated Jim Beis, the mayor of Pierrefonds-Roxboro. “I come from one, so to be a mayor of that community and participating in an event like this, I mean how awesome is this?”
With this yr’s Carifiesta cancelled after town of Montreal denied funding, organizers say that it was necessary to offer the neighborhood an outlet to rejoice.
“The Black community was devastated, obviously, specifically, people from the Caribbean, so we’re happy to be able this year in Pierrefonds to bring a form of celebration,” stated Akilah Newton, the competition’s founder and organizer.
Newton says the concept got here from the house owners of Tasty Touch, a catering firm serving Caribbean meals.
“Wow, word travels!” stated Don Garrett with contagious laughter. Garret and his spouse are the founders of Tasty Touch. “The simple question is why not? We have Poutine festival, Burger festival, Rib festival. Why not a Caribbean festival on the West Island.”
Vendors additionally included Adriana Jackson, an 11-year-old entrepreneur with Bajan roots who sells scrunchies, bows bracelets amongst different objects.
Jackson says it’s necessary for her to rejoice her tradition.
“I feel amazing because at school, sometimes, I can’t really show like the music and the culture because some kids are like, ‘Isn’t that kind of weird, how they dance, how they sing?’,” she says. “It feels amazing to let it all out.”
The occasion can also be elevating funds for Overture with the Arts, a non-profit providing training in music, dance, drama and vocal coaching, which Newton runs.
Island Fête, a charitable and enjoyable endeavour all wrapped into one.
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