Jamaicans living in the Cayman Islands are making the last preparations for their yearly Independence Day celebrations, which have become a staple in the territory over the decades.

This is the 48th anniversary of Jamaica’s independence from British rule.

Many in the community are surely brimming with anticipation for the tastes, smells, sights and sounds that are to come during the festivities. With several different locations on island serving as venues for the various fetes, there will likely be enough action for everyone to enjoy.

One gathering place that has served as a focus for the celebration over the past three years is Cardinal Avenue, where hoards of people of all nationalities usually come together to sample the dishes, craft and different aspects of Jamaican culture.

Organised by ROMA United Foot Ball Club in association with Triple A Productions, the Cardinal Avenue event this year is dubbed The Official Jamaican Independence Celebration Under the Distinguished Patronage of the of the Honorary Jamaican Consulate.

“There will be roasted breadfruit, coconut drops, grata cake and dukunu/blue draws, potato pudding, ackee and salt fish, as well as arts and crafts, folk singing  and dialect poetry,” said Danny Richards, one of the event’s organisers.

Richards said the Cardinal Avenue spectacle would be another one to remember, as is the aim every year.

There is also a night time celebration scheduled to take place at Reflections parking lot, off Godfrey Nixon Way.

Richards said the celebration would feature a jerk festival, sponsored by Grace Foods that would be judged by a panel of distinguished guests.

“Whatever can be jerked will be jerked,” he declared, adding that proceeds from the sales would go toward the ROMA soccer programme, as well as a charity to be chosen by the team at Radio Cayman. To set the tone for the proceedings, local gospel singers Michelle T and Life Unlimited are slated to perform. They will be followed by other resident acts, including the Hype Squad dance group.

A video presentation tribute to Louise Bennett-Coverley, a popular Jamaican folk hero and cultural icon who passed away in 2006, will also be on display.

Part of the poet’s legacy is described as “hitting the truth of her society through its own language,” according to her official biography, which cited her as an important contributor to the way Jamaicans think, feel and live.

Another highlight of the evening session will be a performance by comedic duo Ity and Fancy Cat. The two currently have a comedy series in Jamaica and are known throughout the region, as well as internationally, for their antics.

The Trench Town duo have been together, making crowds laugh near and far for over 10 years now and their infectious humour has brought them to recent prominence from their self described, “humble beginnings.” At a time when many of the entertainers’ peers were being led astray in hopes of a better life, the duo said they found laughter to be the best way out of their circumstance.

The event does not lack for enthusiasts. Chris Durant of Real Wood Cabinets said, “I think every year the show gets better and the organisers have been privileged to always have a great turnout. This time around promises true family enjoyment.”

Among the festivities on 6 August will be ska contests and giveaways, according to Richards. “Everything will reflect that this is a family event and the competitions are for young and old, as well as prizes- big and small- to be won.”

He added that, as with all official Jamaican Independence celebrations, Prime Minister Bruce Golding’s message will be presented. This year the message will be conveyed by Acting Honorary Council Elaine Harris.

The National Anthems for the Cayman Islands and Jamaica will be sung to observe the official opening of the nighttime segment.

“It’s Jamaica’s independence, but all can attend and celebrate with us,” said Mr. Richards, who noted that there is no entry fee for any of the events.

Apart from the official celebration, there will be several other parties held around Grand Cayman to mark the 48th year of our neighbour’s independence. Among others, Welly’s Cool Spot and Mango Tree are sure to be jam-packed with patrons infused with the spirit of the day.