NEGRIL, Westmoreland — The launch of Negril Carnival at Kenny’s Italian Café last Saturday has been met with much enthusiasm from the business sector.

The event is being hailed as a much-needed boost for the fortunes of Negril, especially with the departure of major events as well as the tourism fallout from Hurricane Melissa.

Set for Sunday, April 5, at Long Bay Beach Park, the event will feature a road march and beach party with live entertainment.

Speaking at the launch, Campari Group Brand Manager Jerome Walters emphasised the company’s commitment to the product and the revitalisation of the resort town.

“I don’t think entertainment left Negril. What we’re going to do is invest in this Carnival and ensure that it’s massive, fun, and has the right… atmosphere… That’s why we’re here to bring that vibe, energy, life, and creativity into the space. Campari has been integral in Carnival over the years and we’re going to ensure that this Carnival is big,” he said.

“It matters to us as Negril is growing and this Carnival is slated to have as much as 5,000 patrons, and we want to be a part of that. We’re going to invest in it for the best patron experience. We’re giving back and partnering in initiatives like this as we want to see Negril being back to the days where hotels are being filled, entrepreneurs benefitting, and enjoying themselves,” Walters added.

Speaking at the launch, Negril Carnival promoter Kenny Johnson expressed confidence in the push for the event.

“[T]his is doing something good for Negril. The staging of a Carnival hasn’t been seen in Negril in a very long time. We’re looking for everyone to participate and enjoy it, especially the residents of Westmoreland. This is a vehicle for delivering an economic boost to the area through hotel bookings and employment. I’m imploring everyone to support it and make it work for our community,” he said.

The event was endorsed by the president of the Negril Chamber of Commerce Damian Salmon.

“I think the energy in Negril is fantastic and the promotion of a Carnival in Negril fits perfectly in that. This will help in getting Negril back up and running, keeping the energy and the people coming back, as people love Negril. I want to thank Kenny [Johnson] and his team for the initiative as he’s a part of that energy in getting Negril right,” Salmon expressed.

Negril Carnival promoters Kenny Johnson (right) and Damane Scott (second left) along with Tesfaye Brown (left), events execution analyst, J Wray & Nephew Limited; and Jerome Walters, brand manager, Campari Group, signal their collaboration at the launch of Negril Carnival at Kenny’s Italian Café in Negril.

Princess Hotels colleagues (from left) Cathy-Ann Edwards, groups specialist; Kymoya Case, director of operations; and Kimika Beckford, regional deputy commercial director, Royalton Hotels and Resort, in attendance at the launch.