Celebrating Rum, Culture, and Community in Brooklyn
- pitches3
- Aug 27
- 2 min read
By: NYABJ Staff
As Labor Day weekend approaches, Brooklyn comes alive with vibrant energy along Eastern Parkway, where residents gather annually to celebrate the iconic West Indian Parade. The celebration kicked off earlier this month, through I Rum Brooklyn's annual Rum Fest.
The immersive event brought together over 20 rum vendors and Caribbean food artisans. The atmosphere was buzzing with excitement as attendees sampled diverse rums from many different countries including the Dominican Republic, Haiti, Barbados and St. Lucia. The festival goers were able engage directly with the brand owners and ambassadors who passionately shared the stories behind their spirits.
Among the vendors, some were making their debut, like Ozama, founded by none other than baseball legend David "Big Papi" Ortiz who's brand ambassador created cocktails for everyone who walked up to their booth, it added a fresh twist to the festivities. Others, such as Bacardi, are household names long celebrated for their timeless quality.
The event was more than just tasting; it was a true celebration of Caribbean heritage. What made this event special was also the educational component of talking to makers of the product and gaining insight into the craftsmanship behind each bottle.
And of course, no Brooklyn rum event is complete without a lively DJ spinning tunes that kept the energy high, alongside a spirited cocktail-making contest that showcased bartenders’ creativity and skill.
As the afternoon unfolded, the venue was filled with good vibes, laughter, and the aroma of Caribbean spices—a perfect homage to the rich, enduring rum culture that continues to thrive in Brooklyn. It was an afternoon of cultural connection, community, and celebration, an experience that left everyone eager for the next round of Brooklyn’s vibrant Caribbean festivities.
