In true Pan Di Plaza style and fashion, the vibrance of dancehall street culture was on full display as the event returned to Ocho Rios for the first time in two years for the 2023 staging of Vacae Weekend on April 7.

Birthed in Kingston over seven years ago, the event has become a staple for dancehall lovers across the island who are looking for the ultimate dancehall indulgence.

Despite a late start to the festivities, the Guinness Smooth-sponsored event saw hundreds of patrons rolling into Plantation Cove eager for the vibe. Decked out in dancehall couture and ready for an energetic display of entertainment, patrons were in for a treat from a stellar line-up of disc jocks including Boom Boom, Chromatic Live, and Bishop Escobar, capped by a high-energy performance from Ding Dong, the dancing king.

Driven by the need to create meaningful impact, Pan Di Plaza curator Adrian Wilson, popularly known as Adrie Capo, continues to use his passion to create an event that continues to connect people from all walks of life to dancehall’s street culture.

“Pan Di Plaza was born from the need to do something different while still upholding what dancehall culture means. I grew up around dancehall music, my father is a producer, and my uncles owned sound systems, so dancehall means a lot to me, ” he explained.

Wilson expressed satisfaction with the event’s execution.

“I felt good about what we delivered, a feeling that was overdue seeing that the COVID-19 pandemic had such an impact on our plans for last year’s Vacae Weekend. For me, the highlight this year was seeing the turnout. There was a huge crowd present coupled with the people’s energy. Vacae Weekend is growing in Ocho Rios and this contributed to the event’s success after countless meetings to get our outcome. Being able to witness [the] event was a true joy,” Wilson declared.

Guinness Brand Manager Nadine Hylton, for her part, said: “Dancehall is embraced by many cultures across the world yet there is still a deficit in local appreciation for the genre. This is why the partnership with Pan Di Plaza works for us. It is important that we take ownership of our culture and continue to give dancehall fans meaningful opportunities to celebrate the music in this fashion here at home.”

Vacae Weekend festivities were kick-started with Di Lawn and Pan Di Plaza and continued with Strickly 2K Throwback Music Festival, Sandz Music Festival featuring international heavyweight, Rick Ross; Ova Suh; and The Estate.