Main Event Entertainment Group, Kingston and St Andrew Municipal Corporation (KSAMC) and Red Stripe Flavours are partnering with Kingston Creative to host the ‘Last Fete of the Season’ on April 28.

Those who attend will have a chance to be immersed in the rich Caribbean culture in the heart of downtown Kingston. There will be steel pan music by the Panoriddim Orchestra, a live musical performance by the Alpha Institute Community Band, and dance showcases by the Denham Town Dance Academy.

The day will conclude with a vibrant carnival fete hosted by ‘The Road Marshall’ DJ Brush 1 and DJ Bloodline Franco.

Deputy director of Kingston Creative, Janet Crick, said that touring downtown is integral to the festival.

“We want everyone to explore downtown and experience the rich culture in the communities, so they can appreciate and preserve our heritage. We are very pleased to partner with Trench Town Culture Yard on this tour as it is rich in musical heritage,” said Crick.

To kick off the festivities, attendees will be given a free bus tour of the iconic Trench Town Culture Yard as part of the ‘Rediscover Downtown’ initiative. This historic site, once home to legendary musician Bob Marley, now houses a museum showcasing the rich history of Trench Town and artefacts used by music icons such as Tata Ford, Bob Marley, Peter Tosh, and Bunny Wailer.

Red Stripe Flavours brand manager Jodi-Ann Campbell said: “Events like these perfectly align with our brand. We are always interested in supporting gatherings where our consumers embrace our cultural melting pot, so committing to this partnership was not a hard task. We look forward to seeing the patrons enjoy the experience – for this is not a mere party, it is an experience, and we look forward to more partnerships that aim to connect people in an exciting way.” 

The programme will also feature dominos, paint & sip sessions, and performances by poets Rica G and Viridian from the PenSoul Poets. Over 40 artisans will sell handcrafted Jamaican art, books, beauty products, fashion, clothing, ceramics, and jewellery. Vendors include Marcia Adams’ Beauty Lies Within, Mekari Beauty, Karen’s Kitchen, I-Nation Books, Unique Inspirations, Naddzzdezigns, Delroy Millwood Art, and Adorable Accessories.

Additionally, a discussion will be led by Marvin George, dean of studies at the EMCVPA School of Drama, focusing on the cultural significance of carnival in Jamaica.