The largest Caribbean Festival in Upstate New York. The Rochester West Indian Festival Organization, Inc.’s Carifest Parade and Festival is a cultural explosion of Caribbean music, cuisine, visual and performing arts in the City of Rochester in its 40th year.

Carifest is a one day celebration that continues to support tourism, culture, heritage and the arts in a bold and innovative way. This festival is designed to appeal to a wide audience and includes performances of cultural, folk, reggae, soca, calypso and more. Performances feature outstanding international and regional talent.

The annual costume parade highlights the traditional carnival spirit of the Caribbean, with its flamboyant costumes and music. The parade runs through Downtown Rochester ending near the festival site.

The festival and parade are usually held on the 2^nd Saturday in August.

Carifest 2024

Food, beverages and crafts available for purchase

2023 Attendance

2500+

Music Genre

Calypso, Reggae, Soca, Dancehall  and more

Demographics

Male: 47%, Female: 53%
Ages: 5 – 80

Past Sponsors

City of Rochester, 103.9 WDKX  Empire Fence, Turnbull Heating & Air