Six signature parties. One unforgettable weekend. And endless music, culture, and creativity.
From April 3 to 6, Ocho Rios, St Ann, will transform into a pulsating hub of entertainment as Vacae Weekend returns, promising an experience like no other. Patrons can look forward to performances by Fabolous, Armanii, and Malie Donn, alongside DJs Fyahman, Ricky Platinum, Chromatic, and an array of others bringing energy from day into night.
At the launch on Wednesday at the Red Rabbit Lawn in New Kingston, organisers proudly unveiled what they say will be the most ambitious edition of the premium multi-event weekend since its inception in 2019. They anticipate a crowd of both local partygoers and international visitors, drawn not only to the star-studded line-up, but also to the curated “escape experience” that highlights Jamaica’s thriving creative economy.
Mayor of Ocho Rios Michael Belnavis welcomed the event with enthusiasm, emphasising its importance for the town’s reputation as an entertainment hub.
“This will be the first major set of events happening there after the storm, and the diaspora needs to know that Ocho Rios is open for business,” Belnavis said.
The mayor highlighted the economic impact beyond entertainment:
“Let us be absolutely clear, this is not just about entertainment, but also about economic stimulation and opportunity creation,” he said. “Vacae Weekend will boost local commerce in tangible ways with hotel, Airbnb and guest houses occupancy. From production teams and event staff to decorators and stage technicians and countless entrepreneurs who depend on seasonal tourism activities, the ripple effect is appreciated, as it circulates money in Ocho Rios and the wider St Ann.”
Formerly known as We Vacae, the Easter-weekend event has now secured an official title sponsor in the Campari Group, enhancing not only the quality of the experience, but also investor confidence in Jamaica’s entertainment and lifestyle sector.
The weekend line-up promises non-stop excitement and unforgettable experiences: Friday, April 3, kicks off with ‘The Lawn’, where guests shine in an all-yellow dress code.
Saturday, April 4, brings ‘Tropical Saturday’, followed by the elegant ‘Estate All-White Soiree’.
On Sunday, April 5, patrons can soak up music and immersive daytime fun at ‘Pic Nic Beach Club’, before the night erupts with the high-energy ‘Risque’ party. The grand finale arrives on Monday, April 6, with ‘Sandz Caribbean Music Festival’, featuring live performances designed to leave lasting memories.
Andrew Ellis, CEO of Twenty14 Ltd, organisers of Vacae Weekend, says stakeholders will end the Easter holidays with smiles on their faces.
“Many creative professionals benefit from the influx of visitors during the Easter weekend, so we continue to build platforms that showcase what Jamaica has to offer, while supporting the communities that host us,” he said.
