West Indian Day Parade brings Caribbean pride, heightened security to Brooklyn
Crowds began gathering early along the parade route as revelers prepared for one of New York City's largest cultural events.
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Thousands of New Yorkers are lining Eastern Parkway Monday for the annual West Indian American Day Parade, one of the city's largest celebrations of Caribbean culture.
The parade stepped off at 11 a.m., bringing colorful costumes, music, dancing and flags representing countries and cultures from across the Caribbean to the streets of Brooklyn.
The Labor Day tradition draws crowds from across New York City and beyond, celebrating generations of Caribbean heritage and the community's influence on the city.
Along with the festivities, there is also a heightened focus on safety.
The NYPD is stepping up patrols along the parade route and in surrounding neighborhoods following incidents of violence connected to Labor Day celebrations in previous years.
Police say there are currently no credible threats to Monday's events.
Despite the added precautions, the focus for those lining the parade route remains on celebrating Caribbean culture, community and tradition.
News 12 will be along Eastern Parkway throughout the day as the celebration continues.
