FORT LAUDERDALE — Organizers of the Grace Jamaican Jerk Festival — billed as the largest Caribbean food festival in the United States — are going for perfection during the 10th annual event scheduled for Sunday, Nov. 13 at Markham Park in Sunrise.
“The people who come every year know that we improve each time,” said Richard Lue, director of the festival, “and for the 10th anniversary we want to show patrons that we appreciate their loyalty and support by improving their level of comfort and offering more culturally impactful visuals.”
The event offers everything from delicious jerk foods and authentic tradition to riveting entertainment, sporting activities and more. Organizers say they are introducing entirely new features and improving others to ensure that this milestone is celebrated in style and that patrons have more of everything to enjoy:
VIPs will experience more comfort and value for money, including the best view from which to enjoy the entertainment on the Main Stage.
The Publix Jerk Cook-Off area will be converted into an Afro-Taino village to showcase Jamaica's indigenous peoples, who are responsible for the world-renowned jerk cooking. Patrons will get a better space in which to watch competitors vie for the coveted Dutch Pot Trophy, as they prepare their tasty jerk dishes for the judges.
The food court setting will be upgraded, where patrons can enjoy their succulent jerk delights in comfort. The awe-inspiring 30-foot kite from the Jamaica International Kiting Festival will be another attraction. The Kidz Zone will feature its usual activities like the bounce house, rock climbing wall and face painting, but kids will also get a free puppet and magic show.
One new feature is the Digicel Rising Stars competition, in which the finalists will compete on the Main Stage for the “Perfect 10” title as well as $1,000 and other prizes. Latin, funk, hip-hop and other artists will add their flavor, followng which the area by the Digicel Stage will be transformed into a typical Jamaican street party featuring top deejays playing the latest hits.
In encouraging patrons to arrive early, Lue says the objective is to ensure something for everyone throughout the day.
For tickets or other information contact Jamaican Jerk Festival USA, Inc., at 786-361-1103, email info@jerkfestival.com or log on to jerkfestival.com
Photo: FESTIVAL FAVORITE: Comedian/actor Chris “Johnny” Daley will entertain on the Western Union Cultural Stage.
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