KINGSTON, Jamaica — Jamaica’s 61st Independence celebration got underway in grand fashion inside the National Stadium on Sunday evening. Thousands donned their best black, green and gold outfits as they flocked the venue for the 2023 staging of the Grand Gala.

So far, the performances inside the National Stadium have managed to highlight the best of Jamaica’s culture with an enviable entertainment showcase. Already, several contestants from this year’s Festival Song competition including the winner, Slashe, have graced the stage. Four-time winner of the popular culture song competition, Roy Rayon also turned in a good performance.

Veteran Reggae band, Morgan Heritage, who received the Jamaican Reggae Icon award during the festivities, also thrilled the audience with a number of their hits as they thanked the country for recognising their contribution to music over the years.

The stage was set for a spectacular evening when Jamaican songbird, Tessanne Chin opened the evening’s entertainment line-up with a powerful and moving rendition of the Jamaican National Anthem as the National Flag was raised.

The celebrations are still underway. In attendance at the event are: Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sports Olivia Grange; Prime Minister Andrew Holness and his wife, Juliet Holness.