AFTER a five-year hiatus, thousands of patrons flocked the Boston Community Centre in Portland for the CranWATA Boston Jerk Festival recently.

As a part of Jamaica’s 50th Independence celebrations, the promoters showcased creative dishes including jerk rabbit, jerk deer, jerk lobster, jerk lionfish, jerk conch as well as the traditional jerk chicken and pork.

Garwin Davis, event planner, said the turnout exceeded his expectations.

“I had vendors telling me they had good sales and most patrons said that the festival was good and they can’t wait until next year,” he said.

The event has saw the lauding of Portland’s first citizen, Patrice Wymore-Flynn.

Other activities included the kids CranWATA drinking contest; bounce-a-bout; fire dancers; rock climbing; comedians; and, local community performers.

The stage show which followed was also a hit among patrons.

Fab Five set the tone with live music followed by Jimmy Riley.

Gospel artiste Sandra Brooks then blessed and ministered to the patrons. Other entertainers included Specialist, Toya, Motion, Harry Toddler, and Chris Martin.

Beenie Man closed the event with hit songs.