The Marine Park Summer Concert Series presented by Assemblywoman Jaime Williams, launched in style on Wednesday, June 25th, with “Caribbean Night,” setting the tone for a season of vibrant performances and community celebration on the lawn near the bocce court, adjacent to the Carmine Carro Community Center, 3000 Filmore Avenue.
Despite a sweltering, muggy day that felt like a page from the Caribbean weather playbook, temperatures mercifully dipped just in time for the 6:30 p.m. start, bringing a gentle breeze and perfect evening conditions for an outdoor concert. As folding chairs unfolded and blankets hit the grass, the sounds of Caribbean delight and reggae beats filled the air, courtesy of DJ Chinee and Scott Yahney. The rhythms brought the crowd to life, with many dancing joyfully while others swayed gently or simply soaked in the summer vibes.
“This is our first concert of the year, so thank you for coming out,” Williams said as she welcomed the crowd. “Today was very, very hot, but it cooled down really nicely. We always kick off in June with our first concert dedicated to our Caribbean heritage — because this month is Caribbean Heritage Month.”
Neighborhood stalwart and real estate owner of Tracey Real Estate, Bob Tracey, took to the mic, emphasizing Williams’ commitment to the community. “She’s rooting for us and working for us every day,” he said. “Be there for her, and she’ll always be there for you.” He also joked about the break in the sweltering temps. “It’s a great night, and the night seems to be getting a lot cooler. It’s like 92 right now,” he quipped.
Caribbean American Heritage Month is celebrated every June in the United States to honor the rich history, culture and contributions of Caribbean people and their descendants. It’s a time to recognize the impact of Caribbean Americans on American society, from shaping its culture to contributing to its progress. The month is marked by various celebrations, cultural events and educational programs across the country. Brooklyn, particularly its southeastern sections, is home to a significant and vibrant Caribbean population.
Tables lined the perimeter of the lawn, offering information from local organizations and sponsors, and community members mingled with partners and sponsors from Marine Park Alliance, Millennium Development, VRC, Kings Plaza Mall, Marine Park Hardware, Nick’s Lobster and others. A vendor outside the perimeter even offered up Caribbean cuisine to add a little flavor and taste to the evening.
The festive night was a tribute not just to Caribbean culture but to the power of music in bringing people together across generations and backgrounds. Families, seniors, teens, kids and longtime Brooklynites shared smiles, laughter and dance moves in a spirited show of unity and summer fun.
The free concert series, open to the public, continues every Wednesday (except July 2nd) at 6:30 p.m. through August 27th, offering an eclectic mix of musical genres including salsa, classic rock, opera, disco and even a Christmas-in-July-themed children’s concert.
Attendees are encouraged to bring blankets, chairs, family and friends for these relaxing summer evenings under the stars. For more information, contact Williams’ office at (718) 252-2341.
The next concert – Salsa Night — will take place on Wednesday, July 9th, with Cool Elements performing.
The full schedule is as follows:
- July 9th: Salsa Night – Cool Elements
- July 16th: Scott Yahney & Friends (Classic Rock)
- July 23rd: Plastic Soul (60s & 70s Hits)
- July 30th: Children’s Concert – Christmas in July
- August 6th: Regina Opera (Opera & Broadway Tunes)
- August 13th: Cantor Shea Rubenstein (Jewish Music)
- August 20th: Decades (Rock N’ Roll)
- August 27th: Scott Yahney (Disco Night)
Whether you’re dancing in the park or lounging with lemonade, this year’s Summer Concert Series promises a variety of joy, culture and Brooklyn pride.
