The task this summer was to make the best weekend even better than before. So, how did the party series fare this time around?
Kicking off the weekend, just like last year, was I Love Soca, the leading Soca event in Jamaica. It proved once again why it holds that title. Moving the location from Plantation Cove to Pearly Beach brought Soca to the sand, a combination you didn’t know you needed. The patrons’ pledge was “We’re going to drink and party all day.” They stood by it and sang it when the pledge master himself appeared on stage, starting with the popular track. La Lee was the next performer who got the audience to break from the usual wine and start dancing routines. Soca and sand under the Friday night lights.
After partying through the night, patrons gathered at “Daybreak,” the renowned brunch that showcased chic fashion and happy brunching on the grounds of Plantation Cove. Later in the day, Milk & Honey followed. The decor matched the theme, “Chic en Rose & Blanc.” The pink and white decor and fashion worn by the patrons were a spectacle for the eyes. And if that wasn’t enough, the fireworks were mesmerizing, capping off the night.
The Independence Day celebration began on the beach of Puerto Seco, because that’s the Zimi way, and you know when Zimi seh… Despite starting late, Zimi ensured patrons had the full beach experience. From the sea to the expanse of the sand, partygoers were expertly guided by skillful entertainers who marshaled the crowd.
Following closely on Sunday night, Allure charmed the crowd, with perhaps its viral moment thanks to Aidonia. The dancehall artiste headlined the event and put on an expert performance. He demonstrated his mastery by letting the Jim Screechie Riddim play out. Fans decided to sing along with the popular Spice track, and then Aidonia seamlessly sang his track on the same riddim, with Allure following every beat. You might have seen a video of Aidonia giving shoutouts to many artists, including Masicka, at Allure, even though you weren’t there. Why not? It’s the perfect weekend for it. But that wasn’t all that Allure had in store. Shaneil Muir made a special appearance during Aidonia’s set and delivered an outstanding performance for the ladies.
Last but certainly not least, Late Check Out felt like the holiday was still in full swing. Season band holders might have had this as the last party on their agenda, but their energy levels were as if it were the first night. This was evident with the introduction of Tommy Lee Sparta. As he burst onto the stage, reminding patrons that “top shotta deh yah.” The “Top Shotta” wasn’t alone; when Sparta Boss sang “them nah run them block,” there was a familiar “Hey Boy” from backstage, and on came Skeng, in a very rockstar-like entrance that the crowd reacted to with champagne.
Was the weekend better than before? Also, can it get any better next year? One thing is for sure: you can expect every year to be different—different venues, setups, themes, and performances. There will never be the same best weekend, so maybe we shouldn’t compare and just try to have fun and make it Your Best Weekend Ever.
