Tammy Facey enjoys the warmth of the Caribbean in the heart of Birmingham.
When food meets music and people, it’s a social gathering, throw in Caribbean flavours, and it’s a party! A taste of the Caribbean has hit Birmingham’s Victoria Square, in favour of Birmingham being the Jamaican Olympic team’s training grounds. It is also the 50th anniversary of Jamaican independence! So hey, get your party hats on and celebrate this momentous event!
You’ll smell the unmistakable scent of the Caribbean, before you see the brightly coloured tents scattered throughout Victoria Square. Bask in the heady mix of flavours: coconut, pimento, and scotch bonnets that make for an irresistible taste of Jamaica. Visit the stalls and sample perfectly flavoured meats that are so tender they fall apart in your mouth. Don’t forget the delicious condiments, like plantain, dumplings and salt fish fritters, perfect as a snack or to accompany your meal.
There are food demonstrations; how exactly to spice your red breem, so it compliments your vegetables and rice, how to make the perfect Caribbean dumpling, etc. It doesn’t seem like there is any other way to celebrate Birmingham being the Olympian’s training ground, does it?
Accompanying the rhythms of the food is, of course, reggae music. Think Buju Banton, Beenie Man, Vybz Kartel, and Chaka Demus and Pliers. The festival soundtrack makes this an easygoing, enjoyable event for all ages, so bring along your appetite, friends and family, to this event where Caribbean cuisine, arts and crafts are being enjoyed.
It’s the last day tomorrow, so be quick to taste the last bit of Caribbean sunshine!