Spring Praise Jamaica set to sizzle in Portland
Published:Monday | March 7, 2016 | 1:00 PMShereita Grizzle
Gospel lovers islandwide will be treated to a weekend of wholesome family entertainment come next month, as the inaugural staging of Spring Praise Jamaica is set to get under way April 1-3 in Folly, Portland. The dates were announced at the events launch held at the Courtleigh Hotel and Suites yesterday morning.
The event will be held under the patronage of former Governor General Sir Kenneth Hall and is expected to be a weekend of praise and worship. In his address to the audience, Hall said the event is expected to target youths and encourage development through empowerment.
"This event is about encouraging youth development through youth empowerment," he said. "The organisers ought to be commended for their vision as Spring Praise is about people and the support they need to empower themselves."
The weekend of activities will boast three big events. The weekend will open on Friday, April 1 with a praise party set to get under way at 6 p.m. Admission for the praise fest is $500. The event is set to wrap up at approximately midnight. On Saturday, April 2, patrons will be treated to an evening of praise and worship at a gospel concert, which will be the weekend's main event. This concert promises to thrill with an impressive line-up which boasts some of the biggest names in gospel entertainment. Kevin Downswell, Lubert Levy, Papa San, Carey Sales and Sista Pat are all expected to perform. The event is set to start at 6 p.m. and gates will be open to the public from as early as 3 p.m. Entry fee is set at $1800.
The festivities will close out on Sunday, April 3, with a family fun day. Access to the family fun day will come at a cost of $500. Season armbands are also available at a cost of $2300. These armbands will give patrons access to all the events happening over the weekend.
The Spring Praise Jamaica team also plans to host several smaller activities during the days. In the hopes of showcasing the parish of Portland and its culture, several tours have been organised. During the day, patrons will get the chance to visit numerous historical sites including Fort George, the Old Railway Station, Trident Castle and Moore town. There will also be rafting on the Rio Grande and nature walks for those interested.
Plans for shuttle services are still being finalised. The Spring Praise Jamaica team is urging interested persons in Kingston to call 826-5771 and indicate the need for transportation. The team has also indicated that it will assist in securing accommodation for persons by providing them with a list of hotels and bed and breakfast in the area.
Tickets for the event are on sale at Genus Pharmacy in Portmore, Braham's Texaco Gas Station in Portland, Xtras in Mall Plaza, 107 Constant Spring Road, Dolphin Pharmacy on Old Hope Road and Fontana Pharmacies in Manchester, Ocho Rios, Montego Bay and Barbican.