Jamaica Epicurean Escape moves to May 2014

The Jamaica Epicurean Escape, which was originally scheduled for Saturday, November 30, and Sunday, December 1, 2013, has been postponed to the weekend of May 23-25, 2014.

According to festival organiser Marcia McDonnough, the decision to postpone was based on the fact that raising cash sponsorship has proven to be extremely difficult in the current economic climate, and although most of the sponsors of the event from last year had renewed their participation, sufficient funds were not available to host the event.

She added, however, that required funding has been eventually identified, but it cannot be made available to the team in time for the mounting of the festival at the end of this month.

"While we are very disappointed at having to make this decision, the organising team is convinced of the prudence and wisdom of the decision. We have established a reputation for a quality product and we cannot afford to mar the brand in any way," explained McDonnough.

SEVERAL ADVANTAGES

There are several advantages to the date change, she expanded.

"Moving to May will also give us the advantage to implement a more intensive and extended overseas marketing programme, which we will start almost immediately. This will fulfil our mandate to make the event truly international and to increase the number of visitors to Jamaica in a period that is traditionally a low season. It also provides the opportunity to make the Jamaica Epicurean Escape a truly world-class event in 2014, as we can now confidently plan our programme and put the necessary arrangements in place in a timely and prudent manner," she explained.

"We have already advised our partners, including major sponsors, of the change, and are happy and grateful that they are committed to the Jamaica Epicurean Escape and will continue with their support for the May dates. We encourage everyone to continue visiting our website www.jamaicaepicureanescape.com for continuous updates on the festival.