Vacae Weekend: A Celebration of Jamaican Culture and Community
With the Easter holidays just around the corner, Jamaicans both at home and in the diaspora are buzzing with excitement for what promises to be an unforgettable Vacae Weekend. St Ann’s Bay Mayor Michael Belnavis is particularly enthusiastic, as his team has been working around the clock to prepare for the festivities.
“As you know, Ocho Rios and, by extension, its surrounding areas, is the party capital of Jamaica. Every big event comes to Ocho Rios – and we are excited about that,” Belnavis shared with The Gleaner. His enthusiasm is palpable, especially after last year’s announcement that parts of St Ann have officially been designated as entertainment zones.
“It was only natural to see more events coming, following the announcement by Minister Grange. We are expectant of more developments in the near future,” he added, hinting at a vibrant future for the area.
Vacae Weekend kicks off today, marking the first of many events that will take over the party town over the four-day holiday. With six exciting events lined up, the weekend is set to be a whirlwind of fun and culture.
Belnavis noted that accommodations in the area are already fully booked, a testament to the weekend’s popularity. “We’ve been hearing that several places of stay are already booked out. It’s because the events will feature overseas elements, with several deejays coming to the island,” he explained. This influx of visitors not only boosts local businesses but also shines a spotlight on the vibrant culture of Jamaica.
While the expected foot traffic is significant, the mayor reassured residents and visitors alike that the area is prepared. “We’re not expecting any major traffic jams. The good thing is that most of the events are during the day. With them being spread out, it will help filter the traffic,” he said confidently.
Vacae Weekend, organized by the entertainment company Twenty14 Ltd, first launched in 2019 with the aim of showcasing Jamaica’s rich cultural tapestry. “Vacae Weekend is far more than just a series of parties,” said CEO Andrew Ellis. “It’s an outlet for all the things that make Jamaica unique: our music, our food, our scenery, and, above all, our ability to have a good time.”
The festivities kick off with The Lawn, an all-yellow party featuring a performance by dancehall sensation Govanna. Ellis expressed his pride in bringing such talent to the stage. “This year will be our biggest yet, as it gives us another chance to learn from everything we’ve done up until this point. I want to thank all our sponsors for trusting us and supporting what we do,” he said.
As the weekend unfolds, the excitement is palpable. With a mix of local and international talent, delicious Jamaican cuisine, and the stunning backdrop of Ocho Rios, Vacae Weekend promises to be a celebration of everything that makes Jamaica special.
So, whether you’re dancing the night away or enjoying the local flavors, one thing is clear: Vacae Weekend is set to be a memorable experience for everyone involved. Are you ready to join in the fun?
