Euphoria is expected to sweep across the country tomorrow, creating a carnival-like atmosphere in several communities, as thousands of Jamaicans don the national colours and join in the post-Olympic homecoming celebrations.

A mass motorcade across the Corporate Area will kick off the celebrations from the Harbour View roundabout, Kingston.

"Prior to the motorcade, the athletes will be welcomed by Prime Minister Bruce Golding, during a brief function to be held at the Norman Manley International Airport," Olivia Grange, minister of information, culture, youth and sports, said yesterday.

She said the gold medallists will be presented with the keys to the city of Kingston, while the other athletes will be recognised for their efforts and contribution at the recently concluded Beijing Olympics in China.

Grange also stressed that the celebration will be highlighted by fireworks and live entertainment by some of the country's top reggae artistes. After the motorcade, the festivities will continue into Friday night, with a fund-raising dinner at the Strawberry Hill Hotel, St Andrew. The proceeds will go to the Jamaica Amateur Athletic Association.

Grand gala

On Saturday, there will a grand gala at the National Stadium. On Sunday afternoon, a variety of gospel artistes will perform at a thanksgiving service scheduled for Emancipation Park, New Kingston.

The celebration will switch to western Jamaica on October 7 and 8. It will join with the Trelawny homecoming for the athletes of western Jamaica. These athletes will be recognised by the Government and the Trelawny Parish Council.

The public will also get a chance to celebrate with the athletes at a grand gala scheduled for the Trelawny Multi-purpose Stadium.

Grange said the week-long event will conclude with a function at Vale Royal and the athletes will visit their alma maters.

Homecoming celebrations for the Jamaican team

October 3 Arrival at the Norman Manley International Airport

October 3 Dining with the Stars Under the Stars, Strawberry Hill Hotel

October 4 Olympics Sports Gala, National Stadium

October 5 National Thanksgiving Service, Emancipation Park

October 7 Western Motorcade

October 8 Western Gala, Trelawny Multi-purpose Stadium

October 9 Banquet sponsored by Digicel, Vale Royal

October 10 Launch of the Government's 'A Fresh Start' programme