All set for Grace Atlanta Jerk Festival
The promoters of the Grace Atlanta Jerk Festival are promising patrons a variety of food and musical delights at the 18th staging which is set for Sunday September 3.
The event is scheduled to take place at the Southeast Athletic Complex in Lithonia, Georgia.
“Patrons can expect a feast for the senses, bringing together a fusion of authentic Caribbean cuisine, pulsating rhythms, and a lively atmosphere that showcases the rich diversity of the Caribbean heritage. Simply put, food, fun and entertainment Caribbean style,” Daniel Abbott, producer, Atlanta Caribbean Jerk Festival, disclosed in an interview with the Jamaica Observer on Thursday.
Aside from the different variations of jerk meals that will be available, patrons will be treated to performances from the likes of dancehall artiste Ding Dong, Gyptian, soca star Destra Garcia, Christopher “Johnny” Daley, Rudy Live, and Messenjah Selah.
Richie D, King Waggy T, Tony Jangles, and DJ Juggla will provide the musical vibrations.
According to Abbott, the event which sees Publix as presenting sponsor, has grown exponentially over the 18-year period.
“The festival has grown from humble beginnings to as much as 20,000 patrons. We have seen significant growth since its first staging in 2005. With unfortunate setbacks, including the passing of the festival’s co-founder Glenn Simmonds in 2019 and the COVID-19 pandemic, the festival was on a short hiatus but resumed in 2022 with renewed vigour. Most notably is syncing main stage activities and entertainment with the happenings in the culinary experience,” said Abbott.
He said the family vibe, the food, and entertainment value are what keeps patrons coming back each year.
Said Abbott: “There are over 20 food vendors confirmed this year. In addition to the many variations of jerk-styled recipes, there will be many choices of other culinary delights including vegetarian and vegan dishes.”
Abbott spoke about the other attractions.
“In addition to the entertainment on the Grace-sponsored main stage, there will be chef demonstrations, a chef’s battle, a celebrity cook-off with Consul General Oliver Mair and media personality Jody Ann Gray, all hosted by Chef Irie in the Publix-sponsored Culinary Experience. Other activities include an Art and Craft Market, a Kid’s Zone, and the Corporate Walk,” said Abbott.
