This week begins one of New York's most colorful and exuberant celebrations, the West Indian American Day Carnival.  Thursday is the official start of the festivities with "Mas, Mas and More Mas" with the elegance, art and showmanship of Carnival costumes & masquerade.

Other events include the Stay in School Concert, Brass Fest, and Kiddie Carnival Day.

For more on the week's events, visit the West Indian American Day Carnival Association 2012 website.