9TH ANNUAL GRACE JAMAICAN JERK FESTIVAL RETURNS THIS SUNDAY JULY 21ST- Performances by Bunji Garlin, Naomi Cowan, Christopher Martin, Shenseea, Fay Ann Lyons, Capleton and more

Celebrating almost a decade, the 2019 Grace Jamaican Jerk Festival returns to Roy Wilkins Park in Queens, NY for another day of food, fun, and entertainment. On Sunday, July 21, 2019, the ninth-annual Caribbean food festival will feature the hottest performances and highlight the popular Jamaican flavor, Jerk, and all it has to offer. Culinary and artisan vendors from across the tri-state area gather during this yearly event to exhibit Jerk and the Jamaican culture to thousands of patrons.  

The 2019 Main Stage has a perfect balance. The women of Caribbean music are equally sharing the stage with the men this year. Headliners Fayann Lyons, Shenseea, and rising star Naomi Cowan will grace the stage along with veteran Capelton, Chris Martin one of the current hitmakers, and soca star Bunji Garlin to deliver a full Caribbean experience of culture.  

New Reggae Songstress Naomi Cowan has shown her enthusiasm for being part of this years roster, “This is my first time doing a live band show in the United States and i’m just excited that I am going to get to perform for an audience that has been supporting my music and reggae music over the years and alongside artists I really admire.” “Fay Ann and Shenseea are two dope artists and I get to share a stage with them and I have enough respect for Capleton, Buni and Chris so I think its going to be a beautiful day. I think its going to be the start of something special in my career and I look forward to singing for everyone.”  

Christopher Martin also chimed in expressing, “Performing at the Grace Jamaican Jerk Festival is always a pleasure and I am excited to be at this year’s to sing some new songs from my recent album And Then.”

Every year the Cultural Stage goes above and beyond to showcase authentic Jamaican art forms. This year’s theme will honor Jamaican cultural icon Louise Bennett-Coverley, also known as “Miss Lou,” as we celebrate the 100th anniversary of her birth this year on September 7th. Host’s actor/comedian Blakka Ellis and cultural activist, Sharon Gordon will bring Miss Lou’s many stories and cultural legacy to life with various performances.   

The Culinary Tent always feature a variety of chefs providing culinary demonstrations using Jerk like never before. Host, Chef Irie leads the group with a cooking demonstration in his humorous style, followed by the celebrity chefs and their exciting cooking demos and cook-offs. This year features Chef Max, Chef Ji Cha, Chef Rudy, Chef Troy, Chef Darlene B, Chef Sam Davis, and Chef Cybille St Aude all delivering culinary flavors and lots of tasty samples. In addition to the culinary pavilion will be an exciting Celebrity Cook Off Challenge between Soca singer Fay Ann Lyons who is also performing and Donna of VH1’s Black Ink Crew.

This year’s festival is on track to satisfy the palates and ears of all in attendance. “We are always excited for each Jerk Festival as we look for new ways to entertain our patrons,” said Richard Lue, Director of Business Development at VP Records “This year will offer a great music lineup and an array of delicious cuisine,” he continued. From the cultural stage, celebrity chefs, the kid’s zone, and live entertainment, there is never a dull moment.  

Tickets are available online and at selected physical Caribbean ticket outlets for $39. Children 10 and under free with an adult. Visit www.jerkfestivalny.com for more information  

About Grace Jamaican Jerk Festival (New York): The Grace Jamaican Jerk Festival NY has the unique distinction of being “New York’s Biggest Caribbean Food Festival” delivering an enjoyable experience of the highest quality to patrons as well as a rewarding experience to sponsors. Held annually in Roy Wilkins Park, Queens, New York, the third Sunday in July, the Festival appeals to all ethnicities and key demographics, particularly the vibrant Caribbean communities in the Metro New York market.   The 9th Annual Grace Jamaican Jerk Festival – New York will attract over 20,000 patrons on July 21; a mix of foodies, reggae and soca music lovers, dance aficionados and cultural enthusiasts in the most anticipated event of the year.   For media accreditation, please complete form at: https://jerkfestivalny.com/registration/.