Pulsating sounds and ethnic pride were on display along Eastern Parkway as revelers celebrated the West Indian American Day parade Monday.

The annual event, which is the biggest parade in New York City, brings millions of people out for a boisterous celebration of their Caribbean heritage featuring reggae beats, miles of food stalls and elaborate costumes.

Many politicians, including Mayor Michael Bloomberg and his opponent, city Comptroller Bill Thompson, also turned out to enjoy the festivities and push their candidacies.

Gen. Colin Powell was the grand marshal of this year's parade.

AP wire services were used in this report.