Jamaica, Jamaica! The Brampton community invites the city to celebrate Jamaica Day Festival 2024

BY PAUL JUNOR

The 32^nd Jamaica Day Family, Food and Music Festival celebrated on Saturday, August 24^th and Sunday, August 25^th, 2024, did not disappoint the thousands of fans who came out. It was held at the Brampton Sports Park located at 7575 Kennedy Rd, near the intersection of Kennedy Rd and Steeles Ave, just north of Derry Road.

Cornel Davis and Hewitt Loague, festival directors who represent the non-profit Sunrise Talent Program have been busy over the last few months preparing for this annual festival. Since 1991, this festival has been a staple in the Greater Toronto Area and has since evolved from its early location on Eglinton Avenue near Jane Street and Eglinton Avenue.

On Tuesday, August 13^th, 2024, the organizers of Jamaica Day held a press conference at Brampton City Hall where details about the event were released to the public. The event commenced with an introduction by Sharon Campbell, who has been active for many years as a supporter and promoter of the festival. She was followed by Rod Power, City Councilor of Brampton who mentioned the importance of the partnership between Experience Brampton and Jamaica Day. This is even more significant considering that Brampton has a large African-Canadian population, especially of Jamaican background who have been involved in other events such as: Jambana on Monday, August 5^th and the Canada Day celebration held at Chinguacousy Park.

Festival Directors David and Loague mentioned important details about the genesis of the festival. They traced its beginnings as a medium to promote positive aspects of the Jamaican culture to youth who were not aware of these uplifting and enriching features. Loague emphasized that the festival focuses on positive aspects of Jamaican music to counteract the negative aspects that were being promoted in the 1980’s. It has now become an inclusive event that attracts a diverse crowd from a variety of backgrounds.

On Saturday. August 24^th, the featured artist was the iconic and legendary international reggae artist Sanchez, back by popular demand. On Sunday, August 25^th, the Manhattans featuring: Gerald Albright, Mikey Spice and Papa Michigan headlined the day.

There were many aspects of both days that featured inspiring, enriching and motivating things about Jamaica’s culture, history and music. There were cultural displays that featured traditional dances, folk tales and art exhibitions. In addition, there was an art and craft market which showcased many handmade crafts, jewelry and artworks produced by gifted and positive Jamaican artisans. There were many special souvenirs that patrons were able to take home that reflected the ingenuity, authenticity and positivity of all that Jamaican represents. The savory sensual delights and smell of Jamaican cuisine permeated the scene where food trucks served: jerk chicken, patties, ackee and saltfish as well as many other authentic dishes.

The young people in the audience participated in activities such as: face painting, workshops, crafts and storytelling, and interactive games. Adults had a chance to have fun as well and engaged in the popular game of domino tournament as well as in a talent contest.