The July 4 weekend is arguably the most active in the United States. After a lull last year due to Covid-19, the Independence party scene is back with events like the Atlanta Independence Rum and Wine Festival. Scheduled for that day at Piedmont Park in the Georgia capital, it is promoted by Jabari CG Production.
While a diverse menu of Caribbean liquor and cuisine will be on show, the gig has a strong music line-up with reggae-dancehall acts Ky-Mani Marley, Cham and Inner Circle among the headliners along with soca star Bunji Garlin.
Jabari CG Production CEO, Clinton Garibaldi, said the show has been in the making for some time.
“The executive team has been planning the event for the past three years. Atlanta, Georgia was the unanimous choice for a venue because of the large (amount of) Jamaican/Caribbean nationals who live there and they appreciate and support events like these,” he explained. “We had planned to launch last year but because of the global pandemic we had to revise our initial plans. Our first challenge was finding a suitable home for the festival and we were lucky to have secured Piedmont Park which is perfect in many ways.”
British singer/DJ Afro B and American rapper Lil’ Mo complete the musical package. Patrons can also sample Caribbean delicacies, as well as savor and learn the history of the region’s wines and rums.
Though the Federal government’s nationwide vaccination program is credited with an enthusiastic re-opening of entertainment and sports venues throughout the US, Garibaldi stressed that Covid-19 protocols will still be observed.
“The health and safety of patrons, performers and staff is our first priority. We will be conducting temperature screening of staff and attendees in a way that is safe and respectful, and in accordance with applicable privacy laws and regulations,” he said. “We will also encourage our patrons to wear masks, practice social distance and sanitize where necessary. We are installing the necessary infrastructure to facilitate these measures.”
Formed in 2009, Jabari CG Production has staged a number of Caribbean-themed events including the Atlanta Summer Festival, the Oliver Samuels Tour and Philadelphia Jerk Festival.
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