Boombastic beats, sun-kissed melanated faces, and flavorful food trucks lined the field at Sounds of the Caribbean, hosted at Walt Frazier Park in Miami Gardens on Saturday, June 28th. The free event, organized by South Florida radio legend Papa Keith and hosted by the ever-energetic Majah Hype, was exactly that—hype. From the moment the music dropped, the park was filled with movement, laughter, and nonstop vibes.
“I’m so grateful and thankful for our Miami-Dade County Commissioner, Commissioner Oliver G. Gilbert III,” said Keith “Papa Keith” Walcott, 103.5 The Beat Radio Host and Event Organizer. “I literally called him two weeks ago and told him we’ve got to do this in Miami.”
This celebration was more than just a party—it was a cultural reunion. A joyful, powerful way to close out Caribbean American Heritage Month, bringing together people from across the diaspora under one sky. From Haiti to Jamaica, Trinidad to the Bahamas, flags waved proudly while children danced, families laughed, and aunties lined up for plates of jerk chicken quesadillas, griot, and roti from Caribbean owned food-trucks.
Music powered the movement, with heavy-hitting DJs and sound systems like Innocent Sound, Prodigy Movements, Xtatic Sound, House Arrest, DJ Ivory, and DJ Bulletproof setting the tone with island rhythms that made it impossible to stay still.
Even the weather matched the joy. “It’s a beautiful day to be in Miami Gardens,” said Vice Mayor Robert Stephens III, reflecting on the moment. Commissioner Oliver G. Gilbert, III and other community leaders also came through to support the vibe and the vision.
Both Vice Mayor Stephens and Commissioner Oliver G. Gilbert III served as sponsors of the event, further cementing its deep ties to the community. Other community leaders were also in attendance, including State Representative Felicia Simone Robinson, who represents Florida House District 104.
“Miami Gardens is a community for everyone,” said Vice Mayor Stephens. “You can’t talk about a thriving community and a progressive community without inclusiveness being at the forefront of the conversation.”
“I understand the importance of consolidating our voice. So many times, people would talk about the Jamaicans, the Bahamians, the Trinis, and the Haitians, but not the impact of the Caribbean nation, who we are! Who we are is not just for South Florida, but who we are to the world,” concluded Commissioner Gilbert.
Being in the Mecca of Black Caribbean culture—Miami Gardens—made it all the difference. Sounds of the Caribbean wasn’t just about entertainment. It was about identity, legacy, and celebration of home.
Check out recap video below!
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