Miramar planning to two big events for Jamaica’s 64th independence

The bustling southern Florida city of Miramar, which has a strong Jamaican diaspora, is planning two big events to commemorate the island’s 64th Independence Day with a grand fete and its Ole Time Fair.

The fete will be held on Friday, July 31, at the Vernon E. Hargray Youth Enrichment Center, while the following day, August 1, the city will host its Ole Time Fair at the Miramar Regional Park Amphitheatre, which will give a taste of Jamaican culture. 

 Both city-led events are geared toward Jamaican families and anyone interested in island culture. The fete will feature a competition for the best male and female outfits, so attendees are encouraged to wear their black, green and gold. 

Free entry and parking

Admission and parking are free with the event is scheduled to run from 7:00am to 11 p.m. Hosted by Vice Mayor Carson “Eddy” Edwards, who is originally from Jamaica, the fete will feature sets from DJ King Waggy Tee, DJ Rocksteady and DJ Richie D, highlighting Jamaica’s sound system culture. 

King Waggy Tee is a legendary Jamaican DJ and radio personality known across South Florida for 48 years on the scene and once received a proclamation from the city establishing “Waggy Tee Day.” The Ole Time Fair, celebrating Jamaica’s independence, will be headlined by Ky-Mani Marley. 

Jamaica Ole Time fair will be hosted by Mayor Wayne M. Messam.

This event is all about showcasing the culture and runs from 3:00 p.m. to 11 p.m., with attendees enjoying live music from artists including Ky-Mani Marley, a Grammy Award-nominated artist and one of Bob Marley’s children and Warrior Love Band.

Two months ago, Marley performed at Miramar Cultural Center’s Journey To Kingston. Warrior Love Band will perform a tribute to Jimmy Cliff and Ernie Smith, two legendary Jamaican musicians who died within the past year.

Other artists scheduled to perform at the fair are Louie Culture, D’Yani and DJ Billy Slaughter. Patrons can buy goods from the famous Coronation Farmers’ Market in Kingston, which is being recreated for the event. 

The event is free, but parking is US$10 and available for purchase in advance.