As Jamaica prepares to commemorate its 61st year of independence, Jamaicans both home and in the diaspora are encouraged to partake in celebratory events under the theme: ‘Jamaica 61… Proud and Strong.’
Hon. Olivia Grange, Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport, revealed an array of activities scheduled to transpire from August 1 to 5 at the National Arena.
The Independence and Emancipation Day church service
Grange, addressing the audience at the National Independence and Emancipation Day Church Service on July 30, emphasized the importance of acknowledging the sacrifices of the country’s freedom fighters during the annual Emancipation and Independence Celebrations.
“I am inviting all of you to come and buy your produce there and to have good Jamaican breakfast and enjoy the display we have there,” Grange said.
The festival village at the National Arena
The National Arena, with its Festival Village, is set to become the epicenter of the festival.
A week of festivity: Scheduled events for Jamaica’s independence celebrations
The series of events begins with the ‘Augus Mawning’ market, slated for Emancipation Day, starting at 6:00 a.m. Later that day, the National Festival Queen will be crowned at 6:00 p.m.
The following day, August 2, the Jamaica Praise and Gospel Star Final Show will enliven the Village from 8:00 p.m.
On August 3 there will be the well-loved ‘Mello-go-roun’ event that showcases the top talents from this year’s JCDC festival of the arts program.
The schedule continues with the Reel and Come Again (Film Night in the Village) on Friday, August 4.
The Old Skool Party – School Uniform Edition, is set for the weekend, taking place on August 5.
The grand finale, the Independence Grand Gala, will kick off at the National Stadium at 5:30 p.m. on Sunday, August 6.
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