About US
The Roots
The Celebration Week Story:
Celebration Week in Hartford, CT is a vibrant, weeklong festival honoring West Indian independence and Caribbean American heritage. It features cultural nights dedicated to islands like Jamaica, Trinidad & Tobago, St. Lucia, and Guyana, plus music, dance, food, and a grand parade (*) showcasing colorful costumes and Caribbean pride.
It was originally launched in 1962 by the West Indian Social Club of Hartford, Inc. (WISCOH) as a way to celebrate the independence of Caribbean nations like Jamaica and Trinidad & Tobago. Over time, it evolved into a full week of festivities.
(*) Key Notes on the Grand Parade: The West Indian Independence Parade was originally managed by a committee within the West Indian Social Club. In 2007, that committee transitioned into an independent nonprofit, now known as West Indian Independence Celebrations, Inc. (WIIC), which has since taken full responsibility for organizing the parade and carnival. Although WIIC and WISCOH now operate separately, their efforts remain complementary—making WIIC a longstanding and valued community partner of the West Indian Social Club...)
CORE OBJECTIVES:
Celebration Week is more than a festive gathering—it’s a movement rooted in pride, empowerment, and connection. Our key goals are:
- Celebrate Independence & Cultural Legacy/Heritage Honor the Caribbean’s journey with powerful tributes to freedom and national pride.
- Showcase & Promote Cultural Heritage Uplift traditions, art, music, fashion, and cuisine that reflect the soul of our islands.
- Strengthen Trust & Expand Support Foster relationships that increase engagement, visibility, and lasting partnerships.
- Become a Premier Destination for the Northeast Establish Celebration Week as the go-to cultural experience in the U.S. Northeast.
- Promote Unity through Arts & Entertainment Use creativity and performance to spark joy and build bridges across communities.
- Fundraise for Year-Round Programming Sustain impactful initiatives by rallying financial support and strategic investment.
- Educate & Empower Our Communities Share knowledge and resources that uplift individuals and inspire action.
- Engage & Elevate Local Communities Create space for dialogue, collaboration, and inclusive participation.
- Be a Catalyst for Change Ignite movements that lead to progress and transformation, locally and abroad.
CORE OBJECTIVES CONTINUED:
- Build Enduring Relationships with Community & Business Partners Collaborate for mutual success and long-term development.
- Encourage Support for Our Partners Highlight the contributions of allies and galvanize community backing.
- Cultivate Leadership & Succession Planning Invest in emerging leaders to guide the future with vision and purpose.
- Promote Mental & Physical Wellness Advocate for holistic health and access to supportive resources.
- Advance Generational Wealth & Investment Educate families in finance and entrepreneurship; promote investing in the U.S. and Caribbean.
- Foster Caribbean Trade, Travel & Connection Strengthen bonds between the U.S. and the Caribbean through shared economic growth.
- Champion Volunteerism & the Spirit of Giving Back Mobilize community action through service and generosity.
- Educate on the Power of Advocacy Raise awareness and skills around civic, social, and community engagement.
COMMUNITY PARTNERS:
Learn more about Celebration Week’s Community Partners.
- Caribbean American Dance Company (CADC)
WEBSITE: CADANCE.ORG - Taste of the Caribbean – Arts and Culture, Inc. (TASTECT)
WEBSITE: TASTECT.ORG - West Indian Independence Celebrations, Inc. (WIIC)
WEBSITE: WIICHARTFORD.ORG