THE Urban Development Corporation successfully staged its annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony at Harmony Beach Park in Montego Bay, St James, on Friday evening, bringing together families, children, and community members in a strong show of unity and resilience following the passage of Hurricane Melissa.

The event formed part of the UDC’s year-end activities which are focused on restoring hope, creating moments of joy, and supporting national recovery efforts, particularly in communities affected by the recent hurricane.

Speaking at the ceremony, UDC Chairman Norman Brown said the decision to proceed with the tree lighting was taken with sensitivity to the challenges many Jamaicans continue to face, while recognising the importance of providing uplifting experiences, especially for children.

“This year has been difficult for many families, particularly those still recovering from Hurricane Melissa, but Christmas is a time of joy, hope, giving, and sharing. As a team, we made a deliberate decision to focus first and foremost on our children. We wanted them to experience the magic of the season, even if only for a brief moment,” Brown said.

He noted that for some children attending the event, the return home would still be to communities facing ongoing hardship, including limited access to electricity, making the experience at the park even more meaningful.

“When I look around this park and see the beautiful faces of children and parents gathered, I am reminded of what the UDC is all about: Bringing people together and restoring hope,” added Brown.

He also highlighted the importance of Harmony Beach Park as a people-centred public space and a flagship example of the UDC’s investment in community-focused development.

According to Brown, the park continues to serve as a safe, accessible environment where families can gather and enjoy shared experiences.

He also underscored the broader role of the UDC in national recovery efforts following Melissa, including the rapid restoration of key economic assets such as Dunn’s River Falls.

Brown pointed out that Dunn’s River Falls reopened within two weeks of Melissa, allowing hundreds of Jamaicans to return to work and ensuring continuity within the tourism sector along the north coast.

“Relief supplies can only go so far. Our people need to return to a level of normality. They need to earn and rebuild their lives. The UDC remains committed to ensuring that our attractions are operational because they play a critical role in livelihoods and economic recovery,” said Brown.

He also confirmed that Harmony Beach Park will once again host New Year’s Eve celebrations as part of the UDC’s expanded fireworks programme, which will reach five parishes for the first time.

Brown said the initiative is intended to help Jamaicans close the year with optimism and look forward to 2026 with renewed hope.

The UDC chairman expressed satisfaction with the strong turnout at the tree lighting ceremony, particularly the participation of children from surrounding communities, including south St James.

“This night is about the children, we are simply their custodians this evening. It is important that they are allowed to enjoy a moment of joy and respite after all that they and their families have been through,” said Brown.

Patrons enjoy themselves during the UDC’s tree lighting ceremony in Montego Bay on Friday.

Member of Parliament for St James Southern Nekeisha Burchell (left) in discussion with Robert Honeyghan, general manager of the UDC.

Custos of St James Bishop Conrad Pitkin (right) in discussion with UDC Chairman Norman Brown during the tree lighting ceremony in Montego Bay.