Durrant Pate/Contributor

The spirit of Jamaica will come alive in Birmingham, England this summer, with an exciting hospitality pop-up called ‘Jamaica House’, coinciding with the 2022 Commonwealth Games.

The Jamaica Tourist Board (JTB) and Ministry of Culture and Entertainment are collaborating to host ‘Jamaica House’, as part of the year’s spectacular celebration of Jamaica’s 60th anniversary of independence.

It will be held at The Glee Club, one of Birmingham’s finest venues for comedy and live entertainment from August 3-7 with most of the activities centred around Saturday, August 6—Jamaica’s anniversary of independence.

‘Jamaica House’ will highlight the best of Jamaican culture, music and gastronomy for fans of Jamaica, sporting enthusiasts and anyone wanting to be immersed in the joyful, vibrant welcoming spirit of Jamaica. Over five days at Jamaica House, guests can view the Commonwealth Games sporting action live as Jamaica goes for gold on the track, whilst savouring delicious cocktails from Appleton Rum or a refreshing Red Stripe beer.

They will also be treated to some authentic jerk chicken and Jamaican patties over the five days. Jamaican artists will also stir visitors’ hearts with the best of reggae, dancehall, gospel and comedy. There will be live races from the games and nightly entertainment from noon to midnight each day.

Jamaica House itinerary:

• Wednesday, August 3: Lovers Rock featuring legends Carroll Thompson and Winston Reedy.
• Thursday, August 4: International reggae night featuring Doktor and a special appearance by Stylo-G.
• Friday, August 5: Comedy night with White Yardie & Friends.
• Saturday, August 6: Ring the alarm – The DJ showdown featuring Big John Newood, Lady Jennie P, Mikey Biggs and JNR Banton (Blood Line Sounds).
• Sunday, August 7: Giving thanks and praise – The Gospel Showcase featuring Lurine Cato and Isaiah Raymond.

Tourism Minister Edmund Bartlett, who confirmed the dates of Jamaica House, said Jamaica is delighted to announce the return of ‘Jamaica House’ for the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games promising that, “Jamaica House will bring excitement and buzz to the city as we celebrate not just the successes of our athletes but also our Year of Culture during our diamond year of independence.”

Continuing, he said ”after two years in lockdown, it will be great to see people gathered again, especially for such a key sporting event. We look forward to hosting partners as well as fans and Diaspora throughout the week.”

For her part, Culture Minister Olivia Grange remarked,  “We are inspired by the excitement of Jamaicans and people of Jamaican descent in the United Kingdom to be a part of the island’s Diamond Jubilee. Jamaica House will celebrate Jamaica, Jamaicans and Jamaica’s contribution to the UK. It will be an incredible life affirming celebration, packed with Jamaican talent and artists and a momentous event in our UK Jamaica60 year.”