Trish St.Hill

On August 16th, 2025, my daughter and I attended the yearly Vincy Day celebration at Heckscher State Park on Long Island, New York. This event has become an essential part of our annual calendar, a time dedicated to reconnecting with our roots and celebrating the vibrant culture of St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Because we regrettably missed last year’s festivities due to a family wedding, this year felt particularly significant. The anticipation was palpable as we woke early that morning, the warmth of the summer sun peeking through the windows, motivating us to prepare our favorite dishes. The tantalizing aromas filled our home, creating an atmosphere of excitement and joy, making the day even more special.

After cooking, we packed our SUV with not just food, but also a tent, tables, and chairs, ensuring we had everything we needed to enjoy a full day of mingling and feasting with our brothers and sisters from our beautiful island nation. The drive to the park was filled with chatter; my daughter and I reminisced about previous Vincy Days, recalling the laughter and joy we shared, fostering a sense of adventure as we looked forward to creating new memories.

Over the years, one of the most remarkable aspects I have come to admire about this event is how thousands of Vincentians gather without incident. It is heartwarming to see people from the Caribbean, Canada, and various cities across the United States converge on Heckscher State Park, all sharing a common bond rooted in our heritage. The moment we arrived, laughter and cheerful greetings filled the air, making it quickly apparent that this gathering transcends mere festivities—it is a reunion of old friends and families. Neighbors and colleagues, who may not have seen each other in years, embrace and reconnect, celebrating the enduring bonds that tie us to our homeland. The atmosphere buzzes with an undeniable camaraderie, where there is no room for politics, violence, or old grudges—just a peaceful celebration under the warm summer breeze of Long Island.

Every participant celebrates our unique culture in his or her own way, each contribution enriching the rich tapestry of the day by sharing meals and stories of life back home. It is an incredible experience to witness: nothing is sold here. Instead, every dish is a generous gift, an offering woven with memories and nostalgia, each bite echoing the flavors and warmth of our island life. As we partake in the diverse array of dishes, from familiar homemade favorites to delightful surprises brought by others, we find joy in sharing and reminiscing, reliving precious moments from the past. The tantalizing aromas waft through the air, mingling with laughter and shouts of delight from children playing nearby, creating a vibrant symphony of joy and togetherness.

Music also plays a pivotal role in setting the atmosphere for this gathering. The enchanting sounds of calypso, reggae, and gospel echo throughout the park, forming a vibrant backdrop that captures the very essence of Vincy culture. The rhythmic tempo beckons many to dance; both young and old moving together, swaying to the beats, each step a testament to our history and identity. Whether dancing or simply enjoying the music, there is a collective revelry in the joyous atmosphere, where smiles are abundant and connections are deepened, reinforcing the bonds we share as a community.

To say I am proud of the spirit of this event is an understatement. I am immensely grateful to those who diligently plan and organize this gathering year after year, working tirelessly to ensure it remains a vibrant part of our community. Their unwavering commitment to preserving our cultural heritage fills me with admiration. I am also thankful for the unbreakable spirit of our people, for our profound love for our blessed homeland, and for our shared ability to come together peacefully. This event serves as a vital cultural tool in the diaspora, a reminder of our roots and a way to keep our heritage alive with dignity and love.

As we dance and share stories, I often reflect on the importance of this celebration. It extends beyond simple festivities; it signifies resilience and unity. My heartfelt hope is that we never let this event die; that it will continue to flourish and adapt through the years, enriching the lives of generations to come. May we always find strength in each other, keeping the essence of our homeland close to our hearts as we build connections, celebrate culture, and pass on the legacy of our beautiful island to future generations. This gathering not only strengthens our current ties but also lays a foundation for our children and grandchildren, ensuring they too can partake in the beauty and memories of our shared heritage.