Jamaica Grand Gala Set for Aug. 1 in South Florida
Celebrating Jamaica's Emancipation and Independence
Hosted by Elizabeth “Liz” Burns and Unique Creations By Liz, the Sunrise event will spotlight Jamaican heritage, music, culture and community impact.
SUNRISE — South Florida’s Caribbean community is preparing for a marquee night of culture, music and national pride. Jamaica’s 188th Emancipation & 64th Anniversary of Independence Grand Gala returns Saturday, Aug. 1, 2026, at the DoubleTree by Hilton Sunrise–Sawgrass.
Presented by Unique Creations By Liz in partnership with the Advanced Legacy Foundation, the formal gala will bring together community leaders, elected officials, business professionals, cultural organizations and guests from across the Caribbean diaspora for one of the region’s signature Jamaican cultural events.
The evening commemorates two defining milestones in Jamaica’s national story: Emancipation on Aug. 1, 1838, marks the triumph of freedom over slavery. Independence on Aug. 6, 1962, celebrates the birth of a sovereign nation whose influence continues to resonate worldwide.
Positioned as both a celebration and a cultural tribute, the Grand Gala honors Jamaica’s resilience, artistic legacy and global contributions. At the same time, it creates a high-profile gathering for South Florida’s Jamaican and Caribbean communities.
Guests can expect a red carpet arrival, elegant reception, gourmet dinner, live cultural entertainment, Festival songs, Rocksteady, Ska, Reggae, and dancing. There will also be authentic Jamaican hospitality in an atmosphere designed for sophistication, unity and national pride.
For more than 18 years, Elizabeth “Liz” Burns, founder of Unique Creations By Liz, has championed Caribbean culture through signature events, community initiatives, publications and celebrations that educate, inspire and connect audiences across South Florida and beyond.
Elizabeth Burns
“This celebration represents the heart and soul of Jamaica,” said Elizabeth “Liz” Burns, founder and executive producer of the Grand Gala.
“It is a tribute to the courage of our ancestors, the strength of our people and the remarkable achievements of Jamaicans throughout the world. Each year, we bring the community together not only to celebrate our history, but to inspire future generations to embrace our heritage with pride. We invite Jamaicans, friends of Jamaica and lovers of Caribbean culture to join us for an extraordinary evening of elegance, unity, entertainment and celebration.”
The Grand Gala has emerged as a standout cultural moment on South Florida’s summer calendar, celebrating freedom, independence, heritage and the enduring legacy of one of the Caribbean’s most influential nations.
A portion of the event’s net proceeds will benefit two charitable organizations, extending the gala’s mission of cultural celebration into community service and giving back.
Event Details
Event: Jamaica’s 188th Emancipation & 64th Anniversary of Independence Grand Gala
Date: Saturday, Aug. 1, 2026
Red Carpet Arrival: 7 p.m.
DoubleTree by Hilton Sunrise–Sawgrass
13400 W. Sunrise Boulevard
Sunrise, Florida 33323
Tickets: $160 per person; special discount available until July 23. Call (954) 292-6848 for details.