HOLLYWOOD, FL – The Jamaican Women of Florida, Inc. (JWOF) brings a slice of Jamaican lifestyle to Hollywood, Florida on Saturday, November 23, 2013 with the first staging of “Ole Tyme Jamaican Gran Market” at Negril on the Green, at 312 S. 62nd Avenue, Hollywood, FL 33023 from 12 noon to 5:00 pm.
In the capital city of Kingston and in major towns all across Jamaica, Christmas Eve is celebrated by the closing of the main streets and filling them with vendors selling everything for Christmas gift giving. It was a tradition that saw families from all economic strata of the society converging and doing Christmas shopping. But especially delighted were the children who often got to select a toy of their choice.
As an off-spring of the traditional “Gran’ Market”, the Christmas shopping season in Jamaica is now marked by arts and crafts fairs that provide shoppers with unique items for home and personal use and perfect for gift giving.
JWOF is tapping into the nostalgia of “Gran’ Market” and the fairs by bringing the concept to the Diaspora to coincide with the traditional kick-off of the Christmas shopping season in the United States around Thanksgiving. “While we know we cannot compete with Black Friday and the frenzy around that date, we are getting a head start the Saturday before Thanksgiving to begin the shopping season”, says JWOF President, Dahlia Walker-Huntington.
The event has already attracted vendors from Jamaica who will be coming to Florida to share their unique creations as they bring a true Jamaican flavor to the event. Jamaican artist and ceramicist Peter Peart – known for his colorful light switch plates and depictive artwork – will be in attendance along with Paula Hurlock of “Indigo Soul Jamaican Kaftans” and Dorrette Ubanks of “Sandalz N Tings” in Kingston. Joining them will be local Jamaican vendors, NAHTE Gems; Samadhi Spa; Inochi Yoga & Pilates; Jamaica Art, Go Addy Promotions, Sanguninetti Handmade Leather Bags and much more.
As is tradition, entertainment for children and adults will be provided, so families alike will share in the fun.
Part proceeds of the event will benefit three families in the neighborhood who will each receive $100 Publix Gift Certificates in time for the Thanksgiving holiday.
“Gran Market” is a shopping extravaganza so patrons are reminded to come prepared to shop for the holidays. Admission is free and food and drinks will be on sale courtesy of Negril on the Green – 312 S. 62nd Avenue, Hollywood, FL 33023; 12 noon – 5:00 pm.The event is sponsored by: Negril on the Green, Hi-Class Promotions; The Golding Law Group, LLC; LAPARKAN Shipping, Reading Pays More; and Maars Automotive.
