Jamaicans enjoying themselves in the park. TORONTO:
THE 10TH ANNUAL Jamaica Day celebration, was held recently at Keelsdale Park, Toronto.
The event attracted one of the largest crowd to have attended such festivities.
The Jamaica Day officials and vendors, along with security personnel, were the first to arrive at the venue and the crowd trickled in by early afternoon. The slow arrival of patrons gave some vendors initial cause for concern, but by 4:00 p.m. the venue began to fill up and by nightfall the numbers reached estimated 10,000.
Looking on from the stage, the huge park was filled with a sea of bodies waving Jamaican flags.
The day's celebration was divided into two parts. Part one was geared towards activities for the entire family. These included go-cart racing, bouncing on a tarpaulin, imaginary rock climbing, a soccer match for teenagers, as well as a talent show.
The various stalls at the venue displayed a wide choice of Jamaican dishes and such delicacies as coconut water and cane juice from the island, as well as art and craft.
The event was officially opened by Jamaica's Consul General in Toronto, Herman LaMont, who encouraged the crowd to unite and be good ambassadors for their country.
Also participating in the event were Toronto City Councillor, Joe Mahevic and Archbishop Delores Seivright, who prayed for a peaceful and successful day.
Entertainment was provided by a host of artistes, including Mercia Bunting, Lady Jade, Wire and Major P. They were all backed by Tatix, one of Toronto's leading reggae bands.
Part two of the celebrations began at 7:00 p.m., when the crowd of partygoers and dancehall followers descended on the venue. Among the performers were Inspector Lenny, Leroy Gibbon, Ambilique, Carlo Brown and rising star, nine-year-old Sugar Prince, who really tore the place apart with his performance.
By the time Glen Washington, Tinga Stewart and closing act, Professor Nut, hit the stage the crowd was so thick, it was difficult to walk through.
Compliments to those who came out to celebrate without an incident. It was, indeed, a memorable occasion.
