Reggae artiste Romain Virgo and soca star Destra are the newest additions to the line-up for the main stage at the 23rd staging of the Grace Jamaican Jerk Festival which is scheduled for this Sunday, November 9 at the Miramar Regional Park in Miramar.

Virgo, known for a string of hits, including Mi Caan Sleep, Good Woman, Love Doctor and Taking You Home among others, replaces singer Christopher Martin, who was previously billed for the event.

In an interview with Observer Online on Monday, Eddy Edwards, managing partner and chief executive officer of Grace Jamaican Jerk Festival, said Martin faced a delay in the renewal of his US visa.

“We’re thrilled to welcome Romain Virgo to this year’s line-up, stepping in for Christopher Martin, who unfortunately faced a delay in the renewal of his US visa. Romain has been delivering exceptional performances around the world, and we’re excited for him to bring that same energy and talent to our stage. We’ve also added Destra, whose vibrant soca energy will elevate the experience even more.

“As the diaspora rallies around Jamaica in the wake of Hurricane Melissa, this year’s festival takes on special meaning. While we celebrate the food, music and culture of Jamaica, we’re also calling on patrons to bring a can, if you can, as we collect non-perishable food items to support the rebuilding effort. Through our partners, SSMC Xpress International and Connex Air Cargo, these donations will go directly to those in need back home,” said Edwards.

Billboard-charting dancehall artiste Mr Vegas, The Original Wailers and Code Red Band are among the other acts billed for the main stage.

The event, which is presented in association with Publix, will run from 1:00 pm to 10:00 pm.

Edwards said his team is working to make the event a memorable one this year.

“We are extremely busy working to make this year’s festival a most memorable event for our guests, sponsors, entertainers, chefs, influencers and staff.  We have always strived to improve upon each year, and we continue to work towards that goal,” Edwards disclosed.

He added, “Food is the focus of the festival. We have several vendors offering not only jerk cuisine, but a variety of Caribbean dishes to satisfy every palate. Grace Foods and Publix will be sampling many products, and we will have the Grace Patty Eating Contest, which is always an exciting part of the event.”

Aside from the food and the activities on the main stage, the cultural stage and the Publix Culinary Pavillion are fan favourites each year.

The theme for the cultural stage is Poco Revival and Reggae (a documentary style presentation) featuring MC and host Christopher “Johnny” Daley, Carimer Theatre Company, Queen Maxine, comedian Ricky Rowe, Drumming Fingers, Explosive Dancers (Dancin Dynamites champions), gospel DJ Brother Gary and Soul Savers (revival band).

The new and improved Publix Culinary Pavilion will be bubbling with activities, hosted by Jamaican-born award award-winning Chef Irie and celebrity co-host Suzette Speaks. There will be demonstrations by Chef Kofi and Chef Alden.

The much-talked-about Influencer Quickfire Challenge will see last year’s winner, social media influencer and foodie Monica Gonzales defending her title against Sky Princess.

Chef Clay and Chef Rose will battle in the Chef Throwdown arena, while Chef Rob will host a kids culinary and healthy eating area.