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SOCA stars Fay-Ann Lyons and Bunji Garlin, and reggae acts Tarrus Riley, Romain Virgo and Queen Ifrica were among the musical thrills on the main stage at the just concluded Grace Jamaican Jerk Festival in Washington, DC.

Held last Sunday at the RFK Stadium in Washington, DC, the hot temperatures didn't sway the over 6,000 patrons who not only got their fill on entertainment delights and cultural stage performances but also mouthwatering jerk food selections from various vendors, an interactive Kidz Zone, Jerk Cook-off Pavilion among other attractions. Hosted by Susan Davis aka Dr Sue, the cultural/fusion stage, which offers patrons a taste of the islands, featured local talent including entertainers, authors, and performers showcasing their love and appreciation of Jamaica. DC-based reggae artiste Ras Slick and Image band turned up the heat on the main stage.

Host and comedian Ragashanti shared emcee duties with DC's Tony Carr. DJ Ricky Platinum, DJ G-Nice and ABlazin Radio DJs made sure there wasn't a dull moment during band change as they kept the crowd pumped up in between performances. Lyons and Garlin brought a carnival energy to the event as they delivered songs, including Big Bad Soca and Girls. Virgo kept the momentum going, reeling off his well-known hits and his latest monster, Now. Queen Ifrica, who has been on tour promoting her latest album Climb, was a hit with the DC crowd.

During her near one-hour set, she encouraged unity through her songs and empowered the women with a motivational speech.With musician Dean Fraser in tow, singer Tarrus Riley ran unchecked through his vast repertoire of hits. She's Royal and his latest Don't Come Back were well received. The Jerk Cook-off Pavilion featured cooking demonstrations and tastings by Chef Andre Fowles, winner of Food Network's Chopped Champion, and Chef Irie, host of Taste the Islands television show on PBS. Washington, DC's own Chef Giovanni Merle showcased one of his tasty recipes and soca sensation Fay-Ann Lyons took home the Dutch Pot Trophy after winning the Celebrity Quickfire Challenge where she competed against WJLA ABC news anchor, Michelle Marsh.

 “We are very proud of the turnout this year in DC. It's wonderful seeing masses of people come out and enjoy their day with us and enjoy the food, music, and activities during Caribbean American Heritage Month,” said Eddy Edwards, CEO of Jerk Festival, LLC. “Our goal is to continue to make the Grace Jamaican Jerk Festival bigger and better every year and continue to be the premier Caribbean festival in DC.” The Grace Jamaican Jerk Festival, DC is presented by the Institute of Caribbean Studies and produced by Jamaican Jerk Festival NY, LLC in association with VP Records

CREDITS; THE JAMAICAN OBSERVER [http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/entertainment/grace-jamaican-jerk_fest_lives_up_to_billing_102852?profile=1116]