KINGSTON, Jamaica — Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport Olivia Grange today provided and update on the planned activities for Emancipation and Independence celebrations.

In a new release, Grange said:

• The Independence Village at the Ranny Williams Entertainment Centre will reopen on Wednesday, August 3, and remain open until Sunday, August 7. The admission to Independence Village is free of cost from noon to 5:00 pm daily.

• The nightly entertainment at the Independence Village will resume as per schedule:

o Wednesday, August 3, Mello Go Roun’ at 8:00 pm;

o Thursday, August 4, World Reggae Dance Championship at 8:00 pm;

o Friday, August 5, Reggae to Rio at 8:00 pm.

• The Grand Gala will be held on Independence Day, Saturday, August 6 at the National Stadium starting at 6:00 pm.

• The Grand Gala Viewing Party will be held at the Independence Village starting at 6:00 pm.

• The Miss Jamaica Festival Queen Coronation will now be held on Sunday, August 7, at the Independence Village starting at 7:00 pm. The presold price offer for the Coronation will be extended until 4:00 pm on Sunday, August 7.

• The Festival Bandwagon and other parish activities organised by the JCDC, will resume on Wednesday, August 3.

• The Fashion Greets Music Show has been cancelled and the Aunty Roachy Festival will be merged with the planned celebrations of the anniversary of the birth of Louise Bennett Coverley to be held on Wednesday, September 7, 2016.

Tickets for the aforementioned events, where applicable, will remain valid for the new dates.

Minister Grange noted: “We are thankful that the storm has passed quickly without causing much damage but our hearts go out to those who’ve been affected by flooding.

“As we resume the Jamaica 54 celebrations, let us remember our brothers and sisters who are affected at this time,” she continued. “I look forward to seeing as many of you as possible at the Independence Village. Let us all ‘Wear it Gold and Stripe It Bold’, and ‘Let’s Get Together and Feel Alright’.”