Waves of color and costume flowed along Eastern Parkway Monday as West Indians came out in force to celebrate the carnival.

The 41st annual parade featured floats, sequined costumes and celebrants smeared with colorful powder on their faces and legs, a tradition called J?ouvert or Jouve. Spectators who decorated themselves explained the colored powder is tied to the abolition of slavery and was seen by their ancestors as a way to celebrate freedom.

At least a million people flocked to the borough for the popular parade. Festival goers sampled traditional Caribbean food and enjoyed Soca and Calypso music.

WestIndian youth carnival attracts thousands