I-Land Fest, a celebration of Caribbean and African culture, is coming to Victoria on Aug. 24 and 25 and promises to be a party like no other.
To begin with, Caribbean Carnival – a cultural celebration held annually worldwide – isn’t just about having a party. It has its roots stretching back hundreds of years with origins based in colonialism, slavery, religious beliefs and, perhaps most importantly, freedom.
“It really is about a celebration of freedom and culture,” said Oneil Randall, the president and co-founder of I-Land Fest. “Our culture is based on a mixture of influences, that include the Spanish, French and English colonizers of the Caribbean Islands and the slaves that were brought there from Africa and who finally got their freedom from the colonial powers.”
These days, Oneil Randall said it’s about freedom and joy and the vibrant culture of the Caribbean.
“We want to educate people about who we are and the contributions we make to the community.”
Kara Randall, the other co-founder of the event, said that a lot of people aren’t aware of the diverse culture of the Caribbean and what a wonderful mix of music, food, games and art it contributes to countries all around the world.
“This is going to be an annual event, and it’ll be groundbreaking. It will mark the first time that Victoria will host a Caribbean event of this magnitude and it’ll be a milestone for the city as Victoria will join the ranks of other cities across Canada that celebrate the rich traditions of the Caribbean.”
The fun will start on Saturday, August 24 at 11 a.m., with the first-ever Caribbean parade in Victoria. It’ll set off from the corner of Wharf and Government and will move down the street in a flurry of music, floats, costumes, dancing and celebration.
“We’ll end up at Centennial Square where we’ll have a march-off of the various groups and short opening ceremonies,” said Oneil Randall. “Then the party is going to continue with entertainment, and so much more.”
The main stage will feature a host of Caribbean artists including singers, a limbo performer, a steel pan band, and dancers. The music will be a combination of live and DJs playing a mixture of soca, reggae, calypso, dancehall, and chutney.
“Caribbean music is a mix of cultures and it’s how we express ourselves. It’s really who we are. Jamaican and reggae music, for example, speaks about what has happened and what is happening with our people. It’s vibrant music that frees the soul. If you’re having a bad day, this music elevates you. It makes us who we are.”
But there’s more to the festival than just amazing music.
“We’re going to have a beer garden featuring some signature Caribbean beers and a lot of food vendors to provide a taste of the islands to Victoria,” said Kara Randall. “There’ll be a chance to try on costumes, and a kids zone where children will have a chance to relax as well.”
The festival will also have some folks on hand to teach non-islanders (that’s Caribbean Islands, not Vancouver) games like Ludi and dominoes. Those games are extremely popular in the Caribbean and provide an excuse to escape the midday sun.
In addition to the regular festival entertainment, I-Land Fest is hosting an official After Party on Saturday night.
The 19+ event will be held at Medusa’s Shot House (531 Yates St, Victoria), and promises to be an unforgettable night filled with high-energy Caribbean music and non-stop dancing.
“The festival is all free of charge to the public, but the after party will have a $20 ticket price ($30 at the door) but it’s going to be so much fun. It’ll be worth it,” Kara Randall said. “It’s a way to keep those Caribbean vibes going long after the festival ends.”
Oneil Randall emphasized that everyone is welcome to be a part of the event, and not just as a festival attendee.
“Anyone can take part as a volunteer, or even as a part of the shows,” he said. They just have to reach out to us, and we’ll be sure to include them.”
For more information on I-Land Fest and for a list of events and sponsors, visit ilandfest.com.
