Toñita Fest Returns as Caribbean Social Club Marks 51 Years: ‘It’s Important to Bring People Together’

June 22, 2025

The spirit of celebration, culture, and community was alive and well this weekend as Toñita Fest made its highly anticipated return to the streets of New York City, marking a major milestone for the iconic Caribbean Social Club. The festival, now in its second year, coincided with the club’s 51st anniversary—a momentous occasion for an establishment that has long been at the heart of Caribbean culture in the city.

In a city known for its diversity, the Caribbean Social Club has served as a cultural hub for over half a century, providing a space for music, food, and fellowship. As its doors opened for the 51st anniversary, the Toñita Fest embodied the essence of what the club stands for: bringing people together, honoring heritage, and celebrating the joy of shared experiences.

A Legendary Celebration

This year’s Toñita Fest brought together an eclectic mix of local talent, international artists, Caribbean food vendors, and cultural workshops that allowed attendees to experience the best of Caribbean traditions in the heart of NYC. From reggaeton beats to soca rhythms, the festival offered a deep dive into the rich tapestry of Caribbean music and dance, a perfect blend of tradition and modern flair.

“It’s important to bring people together, especially in a city as diverse as New York. We celebrate our history, our culture, and our people with music, food, and togetherness,” said Rosa Hernandez, the current owner of the Caribbean Social Club. “Toñita Fest isn’t just about entertainment, it’s about preserving and sharing the cultural narratives that have shaped our communities for generations.”

The Heart of the Celebration: The Caribbean Social Club

The Caribbean Social Club has always been more than just a club—it’s a sanctuary for the Caribbean diaspora in New York. Founded in 1974, the club became a vital space where Caribbean immigrants could find community, share stories, and celebrate their heritage in an increasingly globalized world. For 51 years, it has been a gathering point for those seeking to connect with their roots and experience the vibrant pulse of Caribbean culture.

Through its various programs and events, the club has continued to foster community spirit, particularly through cultural festivals like Toñita Fest, which has rapidly grown into a celebration of the Caribbean diaspora as a whole. This year’s event was no exception, with local leaders, artists, and activists joining in to share their passion for the arts, community, and activism.

What’s New at Toñita Fest 2025?

While the heart of the festival remains rooted in its Caribbean heritage, Toñita Fest 2025 introduced several exciting new elements, including:

• International Artist Performances: This year’s fest saw an exciting lineup of Caribbean stars from across the globe, including Jamaican reggae icon Chronixx, Puerto Rican reggaeton sensation Bad Bunny, and Trinidadian soca master Machel Montano. Their performances captivated the crowd, blending modern sounds with traditional Caribbean beats.

• Cultural Workshops and Panels: New to the festival this year were workshops and panels dedicated to Caribbean history, activism, and the future of Caribbean music. These discussions offered a platform for young artists, community leaders, and educators to come together and share ideas on how to preserve Caribbean culture while evolving with the times.

• Family-Friendly Activities: In addition to the music, the festival introduced a family zone, complete with dance classes, arts & crafts, and storytelling sessions aimed at educating younger generations about Caribbean traditions and cultural significance.

• Food & Drink: As always, no festival would be complete without a variety of delicious food, and Toñita Fest delivered with a wide range of Caribbean-inspired dishes—from Jamaican jerk chicken to Trinidadian doubles and Haitian griot. Local chefs and food trucks showcased the incredible diversity of the region’s cuisine, making it a feast for the senses.

A Community-Focused Event

More than just a party, Toñita Fest serves as an essential community hub, bringing together diverse individuals who share a common love for Caribbean culture. “We come for the music, yes, but it’s the feeling of unity that makes this festival special,” said Juan Carlos, a long-time attendee of the event.

The event is also an important platform for social activism, with various organizations using the festival to promote issues such as immigrant rights, economic empowerment, and youth mentorship programs. It’s a reminder that the Caribbean community in New York isn’t just about fun—it’s about advocating for change, supporting each other, and pushing for a better future.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Toñita Fest

With Toñita Fest only in its second year, the future is bright. Organizers have plans to expand the festival further in the coming years, reaching even more people and sharing the beauty of Caribbean culture with the world. With each passing year, it’s clear that Toñita Fest is becoming a staple event in the city’s cultural calendar, one that promises to grow in significance, unity, and celebration of everything that makes the Caribbean community so unique.

Final Thoughts

Toñita Fest’s return, alongside the Caribbean Social Club’s 51st anniversary, serves as a testament to the enduring spirit of Caribbean culture in New York. The festival’s success was not only measured in the amount of fun had or the number of people in attendance, but in its power to bring people together, celebrate shared histories, and create a future where the Caribbean voice continues to thrive.

If you missed this year’s event, don’t worry—Toñita Fest is already planning bigger things for next year. Keep an eye out for announcements, and join in the celebration that reminds us all of the beauty of community, culture, and music.

What was your favorite part of Toñita Fest 2025? Let us know in the comments below!