News Americas, New York, NY, December 6, 2024: The sights, sounds, and tastes of the Caribbean will light up New York City this weekend as Braata Productions hosts its 12th annual Christmas Grand Market. This beloved celebration of Caribbean heritage and Christmas traditions promises two days of vibrant cultural experiences, from arts and crafts to traditional food, music, and live performances.

A performance from last year’s Braata Caribbean Christmas in NYC.

The Grand Market will take place on Saturday, December 7th, at Merrick Academy Charter School in Springfield Gardens, Queens, and Sunday, December 8th, at Harry S. Truman High School in the Bronx. Both events combine a bustling market with a dynamic concert, offering attendees an immersive experience.

Celebrating Caribbean Milestones
This year’s Grand Market pays tribute to the independence anniversaries of four Caribbean islands: Haiti, (220 years), St. Lucia, (45 years), St. Vincent and the Grenadines, (45 years), and Grenada, (50 years). Andrew Clarke, the Jamaican director of Braata Productions, emphasized the importance of honoring these milestones through art and tradition.

“Grand Market is a longstanding Christmas tradition in Jamaica, and we’ve expanded it to include traditions from across the Caribbean,” Clarke said. “This year, we focus on the rich traditions and artistic expressions of these islands as they celebrate their histories.”

What to Expect
Attendees can enjoy over 15 food and craft vendors, a Caribbean Christmas exhibit featuring historical artifacts and festive treats, family portraits, Junkanoo parades, and a full concert with six performances. Highlights include singing, saxophone music, dancing, and a live DJ, all aimed at fostering cultural celebration and education.

“Our Caribbean Christmas pop-up display will ignite excitement among kids as they interact with old artifacts like discontinued currency, traditional irons, and displays of holiday treats such as black cake and punch a crème,” Clarke shared.

The event also creates a bridge between Caribbean-born elders and New York City-born youth, fostering connections through shared cultural experiences. “Our audiences consistently say the Grand Market reminds them of their roots and childhood memories in the Caribbean,” Clarke added.

Event Details

December 7: Merrick Academy Charter School, Springfield Gardens, Queens (Market opens at 5:30 p.m.; concert at 7 p.m.)

December 8: Harry S. Truman High School, Bronx (Market opens at 4:30 p.m.; concert at 6 p.m.)

Tickets are available online at discounted rates HERE

Braata Productions, a nonprofit organization, receives support from various cultural and philanthropic entities, ensuring events like the Christmas Grand Market continue to bring Caribbean traditions to life in New York City.

News Americas, New York, NY, December 4, 2024: The world of fashion and journalism is mourning the loss of Guyanese-born international journalist, editor, author, designer, and fashion consultant Walter Greene, who passed away on Monday, December 2, 2024. Greene, a trailblazer in the worlds of fashion and media, left an indelible mark on the industry, inspiring countless individuals throughout his illustrious career.

Guyanese born journalist and fashion icon is no more. (Facebook image)

A Passion Sparked in Guyana
Born in Guyana, Greene’s fascination with fashion began as a teenager, inspired by his mother, Ivy, a talented dressmaker. At just 13, he embarked on his journey into design and soon gained national recognition in 1968 when his elegant gown was worn by Alexis Harris, Miss Guyana, who placed sixth at the Miss World competition. Greene’s designs, celebrated for their vibrant colors and innovative patterns, quickly made him a household name in Guyana’s fashion scene. He designed the iconic dashiki, which gained widespread popularity across the Caribbean.

From Guyana to Global Acclaim
After relocating to the United States in 1970, Greene expanded his career, earning accolades as a designer, journalist, and consultant. He launched his signature line, “Walter’s Wraps,” and collaborated with iconic figures such as supermodel Iman. His expertise extended to coordinating wardrobes for Miss America contestants and serving as a judge for international best-dressed events. Greene’s influence also touched the Caribbean community in Brooklyn, where he played a pivotal role in local beauty pageants.

In addition to his work in fashion, Greene was a prolific journalist and editor. He used his platform, including at the NY Carib News, to amplify stories from the Caribbean and African diasporas, showcasing their contributions to the fashion and entertainment industries. He was also a dedicated supporter of numerous nonprofit organizations, contributing both in-kind and financially, including to Mustard Seed and Bikini Under the Bridge.

Championing Diversity in Fashion
A passionate advocate for representation, Greene highlighted the achievements of Black models and designers, covering events such as the “Face of Africa” beauty contest. He praised the transformative impact of diverse talent on the global fashion industry, often noting the unique energy and flair that Black models brought to the runway.

He was honored in 2006 by the Guyana Cultural Association.

Tributes
Following news of his passing, tributes poured in on social media. Musa Jackson, a close friend and Harlem ambassador, wrote on Facebook: “I’m saddened by the news of my longtime friend Walter Greene passing. To all who knew him he was a kind, witty, gentle man who loved fashion, his family and his beloved Guyana. I met him years ago as a young working model in the mid ‘80s. As a journalist he let the world know about us before there was social media through his columns. For decades he always championed us and our contributions to the fashion industry. He was proudly from Guyana and loved to let you know it. I will remember his warm smile, our Kiki’s and his kindness he always showed me. Rest in Peace dear Walter. Job well done.”

“Walter Greene’s passing is a profound loss to the travel media and Caribbean-American communities,” Bevan Springer, President, Marketplace Excellence and Caribbean Media Exchange told News Americas. “A warm and kind soul, he touched the lives of many with his cool, friendly demeanor and genuine care. I had the privilege of traveling with him throughout the Caribbean, where his passion for the region and its vibrant culture was truly inspiring. Walter’s dedication to promoting Caribbean travel and fashion elevated the region’s profile in the Diaspora and beyond. His absence will be deeply felt, but his legacy as an advocate and cherished friend of the Caribbean will live on.”

Guyanese Val Williams was also stunned at Greene’s passing. “In the world of fashion, going back to the 60’s in Guyana  as a teenager, Walter Greene started to demonstrate his love of fashion and designing. Then came migration to New York city giving him an opportunity to expand and be more creative. I sincerely remember from the 1970’s to the time of his death,” Williams told News Americas. “He became a popular force on the NYC fashion scene. I  was fortunate to attend many of his  fashion shows. His creativity was absolutely unique and brilliant. He participated in New York Fashion week for many years and his reputation soared. NYC has lost prolific and popular talent. May he rest in peace.”

“In the wake of his loss, his creative genius, his dedication to the under-privileged, who steps up to take the place of such a create and talented minds in our community,” said Guyanese Allison Skeete. “We are losing our giants.”

Caribbean American advocate and radio and TV host and commentator, Irwine Clare, Sr., told NAN: “The Caribbean Diaspora has lost an outstanding exemplar when it comes on to fashion, beauty, culture and strong advocacy for ‘One Caribbean.’ Walter Greene will be missed. My last meeting with him was at CTO NYC this past summer, and of course he was my biggest cheer leader as panelist that day. His infectious presence radiated around the room.”

Greene’s legacy is a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and creativity. His influence will continue to inspire generations in the worlds of fashion and journalism.