Caribbean Latin America Music Festival in Beijing

World Today

If you think experiencing the food and music of the Caribbean this May Day holiday is too farfetched, then think again! The first Caribbean Latin America Music Festival at Beijing’s Sun Park is bringing the Caribbean to you. Join CCTV’s Julian Waghann for a taste.

Caribbean Latin America Music Festival in Beijing

If you think experiencing the food and music of the Caribbean this May Day holiday is too farfetched, then think again! The first Caribbean Latin America Music Festival at Beijing's Sun Park is bringing the Caribbean to you. Join CCTV’s Julian Waghann for a taste.

This is not your usual weekend lounging at the park, at least not if you plan to sit still. Artists from various Latin American and Caribbean countries such as the Trinidad and Tobago Steel Drum Band, the Mexican Institute of Sound and Colombia’s Sankofa convene on one stage for the ultimate fiesta.

Latin Grammy Award nominee Tamela Hedstrom also enchants local audiences. Born to a Swedish father and an Ecuadorian mother, Tamela’s musical style is as diverse as her background, ranging from Latin to soul and from funk to pop. And there’s no mistaking her Latin fervor.

Tamela Hedstrom says: “I think that Caribbean music is passionate. It’s a mixture of laid back and passionate and impulsive.”

The first Caribbean Latin American Music Festival is a new addition to the annual “Meet-In-Beijing” Arts Festival, and brings international and Chinese artists to the capital stage. Featuring world and ethno pop music, the Festival brings diversity to Beijing’s outdoor festivals such as the Strawberry Music Festival and the Midi Music Festival.

To make this first Caribbean Music Festival more accessible to everyone, the government and sponsors have reduced the admissions fee. With just 5 yuan, Beijingers can enjoy the food, music and culture of various Caribbean countries practically in your own backyard.

In addition to the concert, festival goers can also find an array of Caribbean and Latin American food and crafts. From hand-made accessories to Colombian coffee, from Chilean red wine to Caribbean spices, be ready to open your senses to a whole new world.