Smashing turnout for Summer Fest opening

The 2018 Saba Sum­mer Festival themed “Spice Fest 43” officially opened Monday evening with a smashing turnout for the of­ficial opening Glow Jump Up from St. John’s to The Bottom. On hand at the en­trance of the Carnival Village at Juliana Sports Field was Commissioner of Culture, Rolando Wilson.

In his speech, Commissioner Wilson stated it was an hon­our for him to officially open Saba Carnival and welcomed everyone including all visitors to the island.

“I am thankful that in spite all that the population has gone through with the pass­ing of two hurricanes, namely Irma and Maria, just a little over 10 months ago. We can celebrate this joyous occasion where we portray our culture and come together and have fun.

“Carnival just doesn’t hap­pen, so it’s because of many who take on the task and responsibility of committing their time in making this week possible. I would like to thank the members of the Saba Fes­tival Foundation for accept­ing the challenge to serve as the facilitators and organisers of the event,” Wilson said.

A special word of thanks went out to the promoters for investing in Carnival and the troupe leaders and revellers were also mentioned, as well as the sponsors for their con­tributions.

“A word of thanks also goes out to the Department of Public Works, Sanitation, the Police and all others who have been working round the clock to make sure that everything is in place and functioning,” Commissioner Wilson said. “I call on all persons to par­ticipate in Carnival in one way or the other and to take their role and responsibil­ity serious. Let us give every­body the opportunity to enjoy themselves as this is the time of the year that everybody looks forward to,” he said. “I want to wish everybody a safe and sound Carnival and let us show the world that on Saba we can still celebrate in grand style. I hereby de­clare Carnival 2018 officially open,” Wilson said.

After the official opening music was provided by Riddim Youngsters, Ras Kelly and De Rhythm Band.

Carnival continues to­day, Thursday, with Sandy Bay Productions presenting “Cap-Side,” featuring Triple Kat International, Riddim Youngsters, DJ Blaze from St. Vincent and DJs Rasphil, Zanderzone and Speed. The show starts at 8:00pm.

Friday it is time for “Spice on Da Rocks” featuring Spec­trum Band, lmpak/509 Band, One Blood Band, Ebony Steel Orchestra, DJ Rasphil and DJ Speed.

The Go Down, Go Up, Go Down Jouvert Morning Jump-Up will start from the parking lot of the Tourist De­partment in Windwardside on Saturday, at 4:00am.
The Grand Saba Summer Festival Parade will start Saturday at 4:00pm.
Summer Festival  2018 will culminate in Sunday’s Second Day Parade and Last Lap Sunday, at 4.00 pm.

The festivities will be officially closed off at midnight with the Burning of King Momo.

The Daily Herald.