About Our Organization
Mission Statement
Talafesta's mission is to broaden and deepen the public's appreciation of cultural diversity through a panoply of unifying, educational and entertaining events that highlights international culture. In so doing, it uses culture, education and economics as viable and alternative means of harnessing the unifying powers of the Caribbean experience.
The Caribbean experience at its best, brings people (of all races, creeds, nationalities and backgrounds) together through its unique “kallaloo” culture, rhythmic music, tantalizing foods, thought-provoking seminars and economic empowerment principles - all based on an international theme of unity through understanding.
The initial founding members of CCI are the force behind this concept. These individuals are talented and innovative and oversee every detail from the onset of the event to the grand finale, so that participants can enjoy a worry free and exuberating experience.
Unique Features
TallaFesta’s unique features are numerous. The talent and notoriety of Maria Henry and others in CCI are a great benefit to this event. Maria Henry is one of the original founders of Caribbean Carnival and has been there through its growing pains. She has travelled throughout the Caribbean and North America promoting CCI and benefitting from cultural gatherings by garnering support from a vast network of performers, entertainers and organizers of similar events.
The whole concept of an international cultural event in the North Florida area is a pioneering feat. It’s unique blend of music, food and entertainment lends to the successful nature of this event. It continues to draw crowds who have always wanted to know first hand what a Carnival Parade looks like (without going to the Caribbean) – as well as diehard fans who would not miss an event.
This combination of proven resources and a creative cultural agenda, have bred the atmosphere for a much sought-after community event.
Purpose Statement
In today’s diversified communities, event organizers must strive to provide quality events while attempting to cater to the multitude of needs for emerging multi-cultural communities such as the North Florida area. In many instances, access to resources in such small communities can be a daunting task, as well, creating substantial positive economic impact would require marketing efforts well outside this area. This would require participants to come from many different cities – necessitating an event with a powerful purpose and identity in order to attract such a crowd.
For years, TALLAFESTA has provided an event which not only caters to the multi-cultural needs of this community, but one which significantly impacts the local economy through increased hotel stays, restaurant and retail purchases. More importantly, TALLAFESTA is well positioned to attract record crowds from outside the local community through its unique Caribbean identity. With a support network of similar organizations from other cities and alliances such as the St. Maarten partnership, TALLAFESTA is well-positioned to maximize aspects of these relationships which would increase participation and TALLAFESTA exposure.
Caribbean culture has mesmerized generations of Americans. From Harry Belafonte’s “Day O”, and Bob Marley’s reggae music to the curried chicken huts of Trinidad, this experience has meant travelling to the Caribbean to sample various aspects of Caribbean culture and life. With the advent of TALLAFESTA, this event has made it possible for spactators to actively participate in and witness some of the most authentic Caribbean offerings in the entire North Florida area – without travelling to the Caribbean!
Description of the Event
Tallafesta is an event that provides spectators and participants the genuine experience of an interntational cultural festival – without the hassle of going abroad and at a total cost savings. The combined dedication and talent of the organizers allows this event to captivate the hearts of the Tallahassee community.
The event is modeled after the Caribbean Carnivals of the Caribbean which, traditionally was based on the pre-Lenten celebration. This festive occasion includes a brilliantly costumed street Parade of floats, troupes, world reknowned Moko Jumbies (flamboyant stilt dancers); all dancing to the peeling sounds of steel pan calypso and soca music. This Parade meanders its way through the streets of downtown Tallahassee, culminating at the Village. The Carnival Village consists of an open-air vendors and entertainment market featuring live performances, sponsors’ presentations, Carnival Parade troupe review sessions and home to the Kids Carnival. The Kids Carnival, geared to school-age children, features activities such as fire eaters, limbo dancers, facepainting, mask making, among others.
In the midst of all the festivities, CCI usually pauses to recognize those volunteers and sponsors who make such an event possible. The VIP Gala is such an occasion to honor carnival heroes. Another such event, is the Carnival Economic Symposium – which typically provides a forum to disseminate information on trade, economic and other cultural topics on interest.
But, no carnival is ever complete without live entertainment for the action seekers. J’ouvert is a street dance at dawn and is enjoyed by those seeking a fun-filled daybreak event to start a carnival day. A Carnival Dance features live entertainment at night with music such as calypso, soca, zouk, compa, reggae, salsa – for a very relaxing and enjoyable atmosphere. This event typically heralds the end of carnival festivities and usually lasts till the wee hours of a Sunday morning.
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