NEW YORK (1010 WINS/AP) -- Every year on Labor Day, Brooklyn hosts one of the largest celebrations of Caribbean heritage.
This year the rain didn't stop the steel bands, the dancing or the flags from flying high at the West Indian Day Parade on Eastern Parkway.
Revelers in elaborate costumes and some rain ponchos were seen marching and dancing after an early morning celebration called J'Ouvert.
One of the grand marshals was City Council Member Dr. Mathieu Eugene, who is originally from Haiti, said the best part of this tradition is the spirit of unity and solidarity.
"When I see people, not only Caribbean people, people of all countries, all faiths and political parties, come together to celebrate." Eugene said.
Monday's parade began under tight security after outbreaks of violence in recent years.Policing of the parade has also been an issue at times. Then-City Councilman Jumaane Williams and another official were detained while trying to get to a parade event in 2011.