JCDC celebrates National Heritage Week 2024 under the theme “One Love, One People, One Heritage”

BY RUSHANE FERRON

The Jamaica Cultural Development Commission (JCDC), an agency of the Ministry of Culture, Gender, Entertainment, and Sport, has announced a series of activities to commemorate National Heritage Week 2024. The week, celebrated from October 14^th to 21^st under the theme “One Love, One People, One Heritage,” will feature events honouring Jamaica’s rich cultural legacy and its national heroes.

The highlight of the week will be the National Heritage Week Thanksgiving Church Service on Sunday, October 20^th, 2024, at the Highholborn Street Church of God in downtown Kingston, starting at 9:30 a.m. This service sets the tone for the week of celebration, focusing on gratitude and reflection on Jamaica’s shared heritage.

On Monday, October 21^st, National Heroes’ Day, the nation will pay tribute to Jamaica’s seven national heroes with a Salute to the Heroes at National Heroes Park, beginning at 8:00 a.m. Floral tributes will be laid at the shrines and monuments to honour the country’s heroes who fought for freedom and justice.

Also on Heroes’ Day, the prestigious Ceremony of Investiture and National Honours and Awards will take place on the lawns of King’s House at 8:30 a.m. The ceremony will recognize Jamaicans for their outstanding contributions to the nation.

The week will culminate with the Heritage Fest and Family Funday at Devon House in St. Andrew on October 21^st, 2024, starting at 10:00 a.m. This family-oriented event promises a lively celebration of Jamaica’s cultural traditions, featuring music, food, and entertainment for all ages.

In addition to the main events in Kingston, there will be activities across the island, including Heritage Week Church Services and Civic Ceremonies in all parish capitals on October 19^th and 20^th. These events will be accompanied by local festivals that showcase Jamaica’s cultural diversity.

National Heritage Week 2024 promises to be a vibrant celebration of the country’s heritage, reinforcing the values of unity and pride in Jamaica’s cultural legacy.