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    The Brooklyn-based cultural organization Tropicalfete, Inc. has announced its fifth annual Caribbean Pop-Up Carnival in Times Square. “This free, family-friendly event will transform the ‘Crossroads of the World’ into a vibrant showcase of Caribbean music, dance, and artistic expression,” Alton Aimable, the St. Lucian-born founder and president of Tropicalfete, Inc., told Caribbean Life. He said the celebration takes place on Sunday, Aug. 30, at 1:00 p.m., along Broadway (between West 46th and West 47th Streets).  “Attendees are invited to wear carnival costumes, wave their national flags, and celebrate the rich diversity of Caribbean culture,” Aimable said.  Hosted by Vibes Man Redman and Katherine Charles, Esq., Aimable said the event features “an exciting lineup of acclaimed performers,” headlined by legendary Billboard chart-topping soca artist Rupee.  Aimable said Rupee made history in late 2004 as the first Barbadian-born artist — and one of just two Soca acts — to reach the Billboard Hot 100 with the global hit  “Tempted to Touch,” which was later Certified Gold by the Recording Industry Association of America.  Aimable said Rupee’s catalogue of Soca anthems also includes “Jump,” which has won Road March titles (the song judged to be most popular) at Caribbean carnivals in Boston, Brooklyn, Miami, Toronto, and at Barbados’ Cropover.  In addition to Rupee’s groundbreaking accomplishments as a Soca artist, Aimable said Rupee is also recognized as one of the first Caribbean celebrities to speak openly about HIV/AIDS.  After losing both of his parents to AIDS in the 1990s, Aimable said Rupee witnessed firsthand the intense stigma that accompanied the epidemic in the region and felt compelled to speak out, to foster education, and dismantle shame.  Aimable said Rupee’s advocacy eventually led him to work alongside the United Nations, the LIVE UP campaign (a Caribbean regional media initiative), and other global organizations to reshape public perceptions.  Aimable said Rupee will be honored at the Tropicalfete Pop-Up Carnival by city and state officials for his contributions to Caribbean culture through music and his courageous advocacy for HIV/AIDS awareness.  During the event, Aimable said Rupee will receive a Mayoral Certificate of Recognition from New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani’s office.  He will also be awarded a proclamation on behalf of the New York City Council — issued by Speaker Julie Menin, Deputy Speaker Dr. Natasha Williams, and Council Members Shahana Hanif, Rita Joseph, Crystal Hudson Farah Louis, and Mercedes Narcisse — tentatively presented by Council Member Chris Banks, Aimable said.  Additionally, Aimable said New York State Senators Zellnor Myrie and Roxanne Persaud will present Rupee with a State Proclamation. Aimable said Tropicalfete’s Pop-Up Carnival’s non-stop entertainment schedule will also include a performance by Mapy, “The Violin Queen.”  Born on Réunion Island, raised in Paris and now based in Brooklyn, Aimable said Mapy delivers “electrifying performances that blend classical violin with Caribbean rhythms and hip-hop beats.” He said her impressive resume includes performances at the Grammy Awards, The Ellen DeGeneres Show, and the St. Kitts Music Festival.  Aimable said carnival masquerade traditions from all over the Caribbean, representing traditional, folkloric, ole (satirical), and pretty mas, will also be highlighted.  Participating mas bands include: Ron & Rhonda – “taking us through a musical journey of Calypso and Soca hits, including some of their originals”; Spice Island Shortknee; Jab Jab Family; King Jab; Sugar Candy Mas; Branches and Associates Mas Band; Big Boy Productions Mas Band; Kaios International kids Mas Band; and Wicked feters.  “Tropicalfete Steel Pan Ensemble comes to light up Times Square with an unforgettable set of high-energy,” Aimable said.  He said the ensemble will be joining forces with Soca superstar Rupee performing together with one of his songs "Give Thanks," which is a special treat for the audience. Aimable said Tropicalfete Stilting Unit and Mas will also be bringing the “color, movement, culture, and excitement of carnival to the heart of New York City.”  He said attendees can also look forward to a “high-energy Soca fitness workout” with Mandy and a performance by the dynamic rhythm Section - Riddim Explosion.  DJ Patrick and DJ Eric will provide the recorded musical selections, Aimable said.  He said the Caribbean Pop-Up Carnival has become one of Tropicalfete’s signature cultural events, attracting thousands of residents, tourists, and cultural enthusiasts each year.  “Through music, dance, and interactive performances, the event celebrates Caribbean heritage while promoting education and community engagement,” Aimable said. “Tropicalfete’s Caribbean Pop-Up Carnival continues to unite communities by bringing the energy, creativity, and traditions of the Caribbean directly into the heart of New York City. “As we celebrate our fifth year, we invite everyone to experience the sights, sounds, and spirit of carnival while embracing the diversity that makes our city so unique,” he added. 
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