Mikey Spice Named Headliner for Third NY All White Caribbean Jerk Fest in Mount Vernon

Organisers of the NY All White Caribbean Jerk Fest confirmed on Monday, June 15, that veteran Jamaican reggae singer Mikey Spice will lead the lineup for the festival’s third edition. The event is set for July 4 at Brush Park, 555 South 3rd Avenue, Mount Vernon, New York—the same day the United States observes the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.

New York-based organiser Dave Brown told Caribbean Life that the celebration is entering its third consecutive year. “This is our third year running,” he said. “Our festival is different, as we look to unite the Caribbean and American communities through food, faith, family and fun.”

Brown said Mikey Spice would add range to the family-focused programme. “Mikey Spice has a very diverse catalogue of hit songs that includes an impressive array of gospel favourites,” he said. “Mikey’s delivery and vocal ability is unmatched, which makes him most qualified for our festival.”

Also scheduled to perform are gospel artists Golda McFarlane, Jabez, Brother Paul, and Reggae Pastor. Social media personality Colaz Smith is billed for special appearances. “Colaz has been heating up the media space through his entertaining food content and creative cooking techniques,” Brown said. “We are excited to have him onboard for the festival this year, and his fans can’t wait to see him. He will be taking along with him, his very unconventional cooking recipes and style, the most famous of which is his coconut dumplings, which will be prepared and served right there in the park,” Brown added.

Brown noted that, compared with many jerk festivals held across the diaspora, this gathering was built around a wider purpose. “We have a very diverse audience, and this is definitely by design; hence, it’s of vital importance to reach everyone,” he said, adding that the lineup reflects that aim through inspirational music, Caribbean food, arts and crafts, fashion, and cultural displays.

He said attendance has increased each year, drawing crowds from the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic. “We’re looking forward to attracting patrons from Mount Vernon, New York City, New Jersey, Connecticut and beyond,” Brown said. “We have folks coming from as far as Delaware and Maryland.”

Gates open at 12:00 noon and the festival runs until 8:00 p.m.