Multicultural event

Noah Hunton [Dave Miller/Ocala Gazette file photo]

The Ocala Jamaica Cultural Alliance will host a Jamaica Pre-Independence Celebration & Jerk Fest on Aug. 1 at the Southeastern Livestock Pavilion, with guest performer Noah Hunton.

The event will run from midday to midnight and is designed as a family-friendly celebration, with children under 12 admitted free.

Hosted by a cultural alliance committed to building connections between Jamaica and Ocala, the celebration comes as more Caribbean families make local communities their home, the news release noted.

“This event is about community, culture and connection,” said Sharon Blackwood in the release.

A highlight of the event will be Ocala’s own Noah Hunton.

“Noah is excited to be a part of this, and it will be his first time performing a crossover between reggae and country and western,” Blackwood said.

The entertainment will include Jamaican performers Everton Blender, Anthony Malvo and Glen Washington and his band.

“We will have DJ Acid, various bands and a special tribute competition honoring Ernie Smith, the beloved Jamaican music icon who passed away earlier this year. Contestants will perform in tribute to Smith, celebrating his lasting impact on Jamaican music and culture,” the news release stated.

Guests can also look forward to dominoes, prizes, surprises and a major gate prize: a coupon towards two airline tickets to Jamaica.

The Jerk Fest portion of the event will feature food vendors offering Caribbean and festival favorites. A bar will be available on-site. VIP access includes a personal runner and complimentary water.

A portion of event proceeds will be donated to Veterans Helping Veterans USA and attendees are encouraged to bring nonperishable breakfast food items to support the organization’s pantry, which serves homeless veterans.

The pavilion is located at 2232 NE Jacksonville Road, Ocala.

To learn more and get tickets, go to ojcalliance.com