New York City is gearing up for one of the world’s largest celebrations of Caribbean culture.
The annual J’ouvert and West Indian Day Parade returns to Brooklyn this Labor Day weekend.
The NYPD said there will be an increased police presence along the parade route and in surrounding neighborhoods following a history of violence.
In 2025, seven people were hurt in a string of shootings and slashings following the parade.
In 2024, a 25-year-old man was fatally shot and four others were injured.
NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch said there will be no tolerance for violence.
“For too long, a select few have been mistaking the West Indian Day Parade as an opportunity to commit acts of violence,” said Tisch. “Over the past two years, we have seen shootings on and around the parade route, endangering innocent people and overshadowing this incredible tradition.”
The city said there were no credible threats as of now.
The seven-hour parade is scheduled to begin at 11 a.m.
Eastern Parkway, the main parade route, will be closed from Utica Avenue to Grand Army Plaza. Motorists traveling through the area are encouraged to use alternate routes and allow extra time for travel.