Fri | May 15, 2026

Jamaica Fest dazzles with vibrant display of culture

Published:Friday | August 23, 2024 | 12:07 AM
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Jamaica’s Ambassador to the United States Audrey Marks (centre) shares a light moment with two of Jamaica’s top female entertainers, Nadine Sutherland (left) and Gem Myers, who gave outstanding performances at the third annual JAMAICA FEST, held on S
Derrick Scott
Jamaica’s Ambassador to the United States Audrey Marks (centre) shares a light moment with two of Jamaica’s top female entertainers, Nadine Sutherland (left) and Gem Myers, who gave outstanding performances at the third annual JAMAICA FEST, held on Sunday, August 18 at Veteran’s Plaza in Silver Spring, Maryland.
Community officer at the Embassy of Jamaica, Emile Wallace Waddell, Jamaica Tourist Board representative Kirk Whyte, Minister-Counsellor at the Embassy Jamaica Aliecia Taylor, and Marcus Forrester show off their dancing skills.
Derrick Scott
Community officer at the Embassy of Jamaica, Emile Wallace Waddell, Jamaica Tourist Board representative Kirk Whyte, Minister-Counsellor at the Embassy Jamaica Aliecia Taylor, and Marcus Forrester show off their dancing skills.
Jamaica’s songbird Gem Myers performs her signature hit ‘One man woman’ to the delight of the large audience at the third annual JAMAICA FEST in Maryland.
Derrick Scott
Jamaica’s songbird Gem Myers performs her signature hit ‘One man woman’ to the delight of the large audience at the third annual JAMAICA FEST in Maryland.
Entertainer Nadine Sutherland had her audience in a dancing mood as she delivered an outstanding performance at the third annual JAMAICA FEST, in Silver Spring, Maryland.
Derrick Scott
Entertainer Nadine Sutherland had her audience in a dancing mood as she delivered an outstanding performance at the third annual JAMAICA FEST, in Silver Spring, Maryland.
A section of the large crowd which turned out for the third annual JAMAICA FEST, held on Sunday, August 18 at Veteran’s Plaza in Silver Spring, Maryland.
Derrick Scott
A section of the large crowd which turned out for the third annual JAMAICA FEST, held on Sunday, August 18 at Veteran’s Plaza in Silver Spring, Maryland.
Deputy Chief of Mission at the Embassy of Jamaica Lishann Salmon( right), along with embassy staff, distributes Jamaican flags to person who visited the Jamaican booth display at the third annual JAMAICA FEST, held on Sunday, August 18 at Veteran’s Plaza
Derrick Scott
Deputy Chief of Mission at the Embassy of Jamaica Lishann Salmon( right), along with embassy staff, distributes Jamaican flags to person who visited the Jamaican booth display at the third annual JAMAICA FEST, held on Sunday, August 18 at Veteran’s Plaza in Silver Spring, Maryland.
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WASHINGTON, DC:

The vibrant tapestry of Jamaica’s cultural heritage was on full display at the third annual Jamaica Fest, held on Sunday, August 18 at Veteran’s Plaza in Silver Spring, Maryland. This event not only celebrated the island’s rich history with the diaspora but also extended a hand to less fortunate Jamaicans, making it a resounding success on multiple fronts.

From the tantalising aroma wafting from the food court and culinary pavilion to the pulsating rhythms of live musical performances, JAMAICA Fest transported attendees to the island’s soul. Children’s laughter echoed through the plaza as they delighted in face painting activities, while visual art and craft displays showcased the creativity and skill of Jamaican artisans.

The Jamaica Tourist Board and Sandals Resort were on hand to tempt visitors with irresistible promotional packages, beckoning them to experience the magic of destination Jamaica firsthand.

Yet, beneath the festive atmosphere lay a deeper purpose. Deputy Chief of Mission at the Embassy of Jamaica, promoters of the now annual event, Lishann Salmon, said Jamaica Fest “is more than a celebration. It is a mission-driven initiative, a beacon which for the third year is promoting Jamaica as the ultimate tourist destination.”

By giving Jamaicans and friends of Jamaica in the DMV an opportunity to immerse themselves in the island’s diverse culture, the event serves as a powerful bridge, connecting hearts and minds across oceans.

The stage came alive with electrifying performances by Gem Myers, Nadine Sutherland, and the incomparable King of Comedy, Oliver Samuels. Samuels’ commanding presence and hilarious antics had the audience of over 500,000 roaring with laughter.

Proceeds from the event will be donated to charitable organisations in Jamaica, including the St Elizabeth Infirmary and the Wagga Hunt Foundation, which were selected by the Jamaican Embassy.

The event’s magnitude and significance were further underlined by the support of major sponsors, including the Sandals Group, Jamaica Tourist Board, Jamaica Promotions, JAMPRO, EMD Sales, CWI Labs, Cari Loor Grocery, and Golden Krust.

As the sun set on Veteran’s Plaza, the echoes of the Sarge Band, DJ Ablaze, and DJ Najair’s infectious beats lingered in the air. Through a perfect blend of culture, generosity, and unity, Jamaica Fest left an indelible mark on all who attended, cementing its status as a beloved annual tradition in the DMV area.