Caribbean News
National Stadium Filled to Capacity for Spectacular Grand Gala
Kingston, Jamaica, August 7, 2024 – The National Stadium in Kingston was filled to capacity as tens of thousands of Jamaicans turned out for the annual Grand Gala celebrating Jamaica’s 62nd anniversary of Independence on August 6.
The Grand Gala was the culmination of the 2024 Independence celebrations under the theme ‘Jamaica 62’ One Love… to the World’.
Speaking to journalists, Prime Minister the Most Hon. Andrew Holness, said the celebrations are a symbol of Jamaica’s resilience and rebuilding from the damage caused by Hurricane Beryl.
“Right now, the focus must be on resilience. However, there is a longer-term goal, which is to increase our productivity and increase the peace. Let’s all focus on that and that will build not just our political independence but also our economic independence,” he said.
Expressing delight at the number of persons in attendance, Prime Minister Holness said the turnout is indicative of the national pride of Jamaicans.
“This event brings people together and creates the spirit where we can reflect on what it truly means to be Jamaican. There are so many good things about being Jamaican… . The world sees us as a small island that has accomplished huge things in the world. If you say which country as a small country is most known in the world, that would be Jamaica,” he noted.
Patrons were entertained by a diverse mix of gospel, dancehall, mento, reggae and African-inspired acts.
The 2024 Festival Song winner Kimiela “Candy” Isaacs, and gospel singers, Rhoda Isabella and Kevin Downswell brought the crowd to its feet with electrifying performances.
Other highlights were the demonstration of the Lion Dance by the Guangdong Association showcasing the long history of the Chinese community in Jamaica, while the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) showcased an all-woman drill display to mark the 75th anniversary of women being able to serve in the Force.
Several stalwarts of Jamaican music and culture were honoured for their work and contributions to the development of Reggae music and its growth and popularity in Jamaica and globally.
The Reggae Icon Tribute award was presented to world-renowned band, Third World for 51 years as ambassadors of Jamaican music.
Co-founder of largest Indie Reggae label in the world, Patricia Chin, was also honoured for her five decades of contributions to the promotion and development of Caribbean music and culture. 
Dancehall artistes Moses “Beenie Man” Davis and Rodney “Bounty Killer” Price were recognised for their contributions to the promotion of Jamaican music.
Patron, Kavena Williams, who is present in the stands every year to witness the celebrations, told JIS News that she enjoys the positive atmosphere and spirit of unity that the Grand Gala promotes.
“I feel great. It was wonderful to come out to see the wonderful Independence Day celebrations. I enjoy these every year. It is great for all of the people to come out and enjoy themselves… . I thank God for his blessings on the country for us to see another year,” she said.
The event culminated with a spectacular 1,000-drone display, which lit up the night sky. Depicted were cultural icons such as Robert “Bob” Marley; Hon. Louise “Miss Lou” Bennett Coverley; and track and field sensation Usain Bolt.
The Jamaica Red Cross partnered with the Ministry of Culture, Gender Entertainment and Sport through the Jamaica Cultural Development Commission (JCDC) to solicit donations for those persons who were negatively impacted by Hurricane Beryl.
Contact: Rochelle Williams
Release: JIS
CAPTIONS
Header: The ‘Jamaica 62 One Love…to the World’ theme lights up the night sky during the spectacular drone display that culminated the Grand Gala Independence celebrations on August 6 at the National Stadium in Kingston.
1st insert: Prime Minister, the Most Hon. Andrew Holness, greets patrons at the grand gala on August 6 at the National Stadium in Kingston. The Independence Day celebrations were held under the theme ‘Jamaica 62 One Love… to the World’.
2nd insert: Performers in lighting suits gave an electrifying performance during the grand gala on August 6 at the National Stadium in Kingston.
3rd insert: Dancehall artistes, Rodney “Bounty Killer” Price, (left) and Moses “Beenie Man” Davis perform together during the grand gala on August 6 at the National Stadium in Kingston.
Donald De La Haye Photos
Caribbean News
Sandals Resorts and Beaches Resorts celebrate a night of wins, and take home a total of 16 titles at the 32nd Annual World Travel Awards
Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands (October 6th, 2025) – CaribCon, the Caribbean conference celebrating culture, innovation, and creativity, will welcome some of the region’s most influential voices to its inaugural edition in the Turks and Caicos Islands. The event, set to be a dynamic gathering of thought leaders and cultural icons, will feature impactful panel discussions, inspiring and intimate fireside chats and a flow of knowledge from some of the Caribbean’s brightest and best in the creative sector.
Elizabeth “Lady” Montano
Jamaica’s own Dr. Terri-Karelle Johnson, celebrated communications specialist, media personality, and global keynote speaker, will headline CaribCon as the official keynote speaker. Known for her ability to connect authentically and inspire audiences worldwide, Dr. Reid will share her insights on Caribbean identity, storytelling, and the power of representation in shaping global narratives. Another highlight of CaribCon will be the presence of Elizabeth “Lady” Montano, mother and former manager of soca superstar Machel Montano. Lady will launch her award-winning book, King of Soca, in which she is positioned as the ultimate insider, chronicling the evolution of one of the Caribbean’s most iconic entertainers. She will also share her invaluable experiences on nurturing talent, building a brand, and sustaining longevity in the competitive music industry in an intimate fireside chat. Adding further star power to the event is Simon Baptiste, CEO of Question Mark Entertainment, co-founder of ODOS, a global collective network spanning over 1000 professionals in 35 countries, film director, talent manager and creative strategist. Baptiste will bring his expertise to conversations on shaping the region’s creative sector and talent.
Simon Baptiste
“CaribCon is where the Caribbean’s voices, ideas, and creativity converge,” says Omega Simmons, founder of CaribCon and CEO of SOS Media. “Having leaders like Terri Karelle, Lady Montano, and Simon Baptiste share their stories and expertise truly embodies the spirit of this event. Their presence reinforces the power of Caribbean culture to inspire and influence on the world stage.” CaribCon will take place at the Shore Club in Providenciales, the Turks and Caicos Islands, from October 23rd to 26th. Attendees can look forward to networking opportunities, panel discussions, and meaningful dialogue to foster an ecosystem that develops the region’s creative sector and propels it onto the global stage.
Sponsors are:
Signature Experience Partners: Ministry of Tourism, Experience Turks and Caicos, and The Shore Club.
Other sponsors: PPID, Invest TCI, InterCaribbean Airways, Subtronic Sounds, Spotlight Communications.
Hotel partners: Ocean Club Resorts, Waterloo Hotel Management, The Somerset on Grace Bay and Ports of Call Resort.
For more information, tickets, and updates, visit www.caribcon.co or follow @caribconhq on all social media platforms.
For more information please email: contact@caribcon.co
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