All-Island Carnival returns

The All-Island Carnival series is set to make a return to the island's party calendar this year, with its first staging set for Saturday, February 18, at what is now arguably the headquarters of the event - the UDC field in New Kingston.

All-Island Carnival is now in its second year, and Tristar Entertainment Director Marvin Lawrence explains that lessons learned during last years' staging are priceless.

"Last year was the first year we had All-Island Carnival and it was very new to us. Yes, both myself and Julius are promoters, but I don't think anyone would contradict us in saying that carnival is a whole different level of partying," Lawrence said.

"Over the season last year, we learned tons about our patrons and what they expect and want, and this year we are more prepared to give them more and more of what they love. But there are some changes to the overall event," he continued.

One of the changes comes in the form of a new title sponsor, Digicel.

The telecoms giant hopped on-board in the coveted spot and is joined by sponsors such as Supligen, Clear Sound Production, Pure Country and the Jamaica Tourist Board.

Another change Lawrence spoke about is the fact that All-Island Carnival will now be a tighter production, with six events, compared to the 11 events held in 2011, as well as a lower presale and entry cost.

MORE VALUE FOR MONEY

"Our season is shorter, yes, but our patrons won't feel short-changed. We're going to have events in Kingston, Portland, Montego Bay, May Pen and Ocho Rios. Something else we are very excited about is the fact that our final event will be in Montego Bay this year, and it will be our first j'ouvert event in that city," commented Lawrence, adding that more details would be provided later on in the season.

Soca Junkies, the first event in the season, will feature disc jocks such as ZJ Ice, ZJ Sparks, DJ Charm and Urban Legends. The event will cost just $500 if you buy your ticket presold. The cost will remain the same if you buy the ticket with a university identification.

Tickets cost $700 at the gate. Tickets may be bought at Cuddyz, TGIF, Xtras in the Mall, D'Trends, Genus Pharmacy in Portmore, The Spot at The University of the West Indies, and UTech Students' Union. Gates open at 7 p.m.