On New Year’s Day, the streets of West End came alive with the return of the “PineYard People’s Rush,” drawing locals and visitors to Bayshore Road to celebrate Junkanoo, reconnect with loved ones, and enjoy Bahamian cuisine. The lively parade featured Junkanoo groups in elaborate costumes, playing goat-skin drums, cowbells, horns, and whistles, delivering high-energy performances that had the crowd dancing to the rhythm of Junkanoo. This year's “PineYard People’s Rush” parade marked a significant milestone in the revival of Junkanoo, returning to its roots in West End — where it originally thrived.
GRAND BAHAMA, The Bahamas -- On New Year's Day, the streets of West End came alive with the highly anticipated return of the “PineYard People’s Rush”. This unforgettable event, brought together residents and tourists alike along Bayshore Road to enjoy the celebration of Junkanoo, reconnect with loved ones, and savour the flavours of the delicious Bahamian cuisine.
The lively parade featured a captivating display of Junkanoo groups, beginning with the Swingers, followed by the Kingdom Culture Dancers, the Classic Dancers, New Generation, and finally the Superstar Rockers, who closed the event and were crowned the winners. Dressed in colourful, elaborate costumes, each group played the goat-skin drums, cowbells, horns, and whistles, delivering dynamic and high-energy performances that had the crowd on their feet, swaying and dancing to the infectious rhythm of Junkanoo music.
Deputy Director of the Ministry of Youth, Sports & Culture in Grand Bahama, Norris Bain, expressed his excitement for the success of this year’s event, stating, “The attendance surpassed what we expected.”
The Bahamas Government, through the Ministry of Youth, Sports & Culture, and the Grand Bahama Junkanoo Corporation played a pivotal role in revitalising this cultural celebration and creating an unforgettable experience for all. This year's “PineYard People’s Rush” marked a significant milestone in the revival of Junkanoo, returning to its roots in West End — where it originally thrived.
For those who missed this year’s New Year’s Parade, the Junkanoo groups will perform at the “PineYard Rush” on January 9, 2025. The Grand Bahama community is encouraged to come together and celebrate this lively showcase of Bahamian culture.
(BIS Photos/Andrew Miller)
