Funfest made its return to the entertainment scene on Emancipation Day. The family-oriented event — which took place at Hope Gardens in St Andrew — attracted thousands of patrons who soaked up the rides, music, and games.

It was the first staging of the event since early 2020 when the novel coronavirus pandemic put the brakes on all entertainment events.

Sandra Nelson, a mother of two, journeyed from Montego Bay in St James for the event.

“Mi just glad that Funfest is back. I had to be here because my children kept saying that they wanted to come, so we made the trip into Kingston with my husband and we don’t regret a moment,” Nelson told the Jamaica Observer.

A couple visiting from North Carolina, Tim and Maureen Greenspoon, were seen with their son and daughter.

“The Airbnb that we’re staying at, the owner told us about Funfest and that the children would love it. So we used GPS and found the venue, and the kids are having a blast. It’s our third time being in Jamaica and its always a good time coming here,” said Tim Greenspoon.

Barrington James, who is from west Kingston, took his two daughters to enjoy the Funfest vibes.

“They kept nagging me that they wanted to come, and since their mother is overseas, is me alone raising them. So I had to make the effort to bring them because after two years of lockdown the children want to go out and enjoy themselves,” said James.

Entertainers G Whizz and Ozarii were also seen among the throng with their children, partaking in the day’s activities.

At Funfest there’s something for everyone. Children enjoyed rides, slides, games, and various activities, while adults either partook in the Bingo game or hung out with family and friends.

Shanelle Bethune is marketing consultant for Fam Fun Entertainment.

“This staging of Funfest was simply a blessing. Given the two-year hiatus, we are grateful for the opportunity to provide families across the island with a unique, fun, affordable, and safe experience,” said Bethune.

Apache Kid, contortionists Bones and Black Panther, the Firebreather, Prodigies Band, and mascots all kept patrons entertained.

As the sun began to dim, gospel music took centre stage.

Gospel singer Oshane McHugh, who is also an Industrial Techniques teacher at Kingston College, wowed the crowd with songs from his catalogue, including Goodness and Mercy, Do You Love Jesus, and God Man.

“This is my second time performing at Funfest, and today was extremely good. I had a good time here,” said McHugh.

Multi-award nominee deejay Orville Sutherland was in fine form as he ran unchecked with songs such as God Only and Nothing but the Blood.

“It’s actually my first time here and it was an overwhelming, joyful feeling. It’s more than I expected because I wasn’t really looking for this type of audience,” said Sutherland.