The colors of spring

In Queens, a sure sign of spring is the annual Phagwah parade.
And this year, the 19th annual festival started out at 133rd Street and Liberty Avenue as both the people - estimated at over 100,000 - and the streets were vibrant in a sea of bright colors.
Phagwah, also known as Holi, is an Indo-Caribbean celebration of spring.
Sooky Ramjattan, a singer and parade participant, said that Phagwah is celebrated by “fasting, prayer and worship.”
“It is one of the biggest celebrations in our culture, Diwali being the biggest” Ramjattan said.
Parade onlookers watched as big floats rolled down the street with people waving, singing, dancing, and throwing confetti. The parade route led to Smokey Oval Park, where the real fun began. The crowd gathered to listen to music, dance, sing and enjoy various performances.
Everyone had colorful powder or dye. From the young to the old, everyone joined in staining each other with the bright colors symbolizing spring.
The celebration brought together the community, and everyone went home happy.