2003 WRAP UP

D.C. Caribbean Carnival 2003

D.C. Caribbean Carnival, Inc.’s production of DC CARNIVAL “2003” was a success by most measurable standards. As we reflect over the last eleven years, it is clear that our growth and development were sustained by a strong community base which enhanced our stability. It was also evident that we had outgrown the Georgia Avenue parade route and Banneker Park festival site.

The decision to relocate the parade to Constitution Avenue and the festival to Pennsylvania Avenue was arrived at with mixed emotions. However, the various challenges did not compromise the quality and receptiveness of our annual carnival extravaganza. Downtown Washington, DC was transformed into a Caribbean melting pot as masqueraders, residents and visitors to the Nation’s Capital were favored with the sweet pulsating rhythms of steelband and soca music adorned with the colorful spectacle of an abandonment of dancing and gyrating masqueraders portraying an art form that has received worldwide acclaim. Such was DC CARNIVAL”2003”.

The two- day festival’s success is partially attributable to and a strong desire by the Caribbean Bandleaders Association and other bandleaders who did not compromise quality in ensuring that this extravaganza was preserved, the participation by the food and craft vendors, unselfish commitments by our sponsors, volunteers and well – wishers, as well as support and guidance from the District of Columbia Government.

DC Caribbean Carnival other supporting programs included the annual “Pan Jam” which showcased steelbands in an open atmosphere, our annual Dimanche Gras outdoor cultural extravaganza which featured a competition to judge the King, Queen and Individuals of Carnival and the Champs in Concert- a Calypso Extravaganza which featured two of the foremost exponents of the art form, Shadow and Sugar Aloes.

As we prepare to bring closure to our ELEVENTH ANNIVERSARY celebrations, it is befitting that DC Caribbean  Carnival acknowledges the individual and corporate contributions, participation and commitment. We trust that our continued working relationships will be further enhanced.

During the next two (2) months, DC Caribbean  Carnival will meet with bandleaders, volunteers, District officials and sponsors to complete an assessment of this year’s festival.  Your feedback will be appreciated. Website: www.dccaribbeancarnival.com  DC Caribbean  Carnival is a member of United Way- #4898 and a 501 C (3) non-profit, tax-exempt organization, wherein donations are fully tax deductible.

For more information about the DC CARNIVAL events or the DC Caribbean Carnival, Inc. visit www.dccaribbeancarnival.com.