Buju Banton and Kes named honorary grand marshals for New York Caribbean Carnival

The West Indian American Day Carnival Association (WIADCA) has named reggae star Buju Banton and KesTheBand vocalist Kees Dieffenthaller, known as Kes, as honorary grand marshals for the 59th Annual New York Caribbean Carnival Parade.

The appointments align with this year’s theme, “One Caribbean,” which aims to highlight the cultural connections shared by Caribbean communities across borders and generations. Buju Banton represents Jamaica’s reggae and dancehall traditions, while Kes represents the soca and Carnival culture of Trinidad and Tobago.

The parade is scheduled for Monday, September 7, 2026, along Eastern Parkway in Brooklyn, starting at 11:00 am. Prior to the parade, WIADCA will host a VIP breakfast at Lincoln Terrace Park to recognize the artists alongside community leaders and elected officials.