(Jamaica Observer) In a major breakthrough for Jamaican culture, the Chicago Office of Tourism will put its promotional might behind the 20th Anniversary of the International Festival of Life (IFOL), produced by Jamaican-born Ephraim Martin and held over the big July 4th weekend.
Jamaican culture is one of the staples of the International Festival of Life which Martin plans to merge this year with his long running
Martin started the awards event as the International Reggae Music Awards but later broadened it to include other world music genres, taking it across cities and countries for nearly half of its 31 years of existence. It returns to its Chicago birthplace this year after 15 years on the road.
“It’s a very satisfying feeling to see that the Chicago Office of Tourism has recognised our efforts to impact the culture and economy of this great city, and we are doing everything to make this year’s Festival one never to be forgotten,” Martin told the Jamaica Observer by phone yesterday.
“With the support of the Chicago Office of Tourism, we have planned a major four-month promotion,” said Martin who is president of Martin’s International Culture, organisers of the event. “We are inviting visitors worldwide to Chicago to spend the 4th of July weekend at the culturally rich International Festival of Life (IFOL). And then to stay for the culinary delights of the Taste of Chicago.”
The Festival of Life will feature a pavilion showcasing “all things Jamaican” and serving as a road to Jamaica’s golden jubilee in August, Martin said, encouraging importers/exporters, hoteliers, shipping services, travel-oriented entrepreneurs and businesses that market Jamaica or Brand Jamaica products to participate.
He said the music awards event itself is set for July 5 and, along with the IFOL, will commemorate Jamaica’s 50th anniversary of Independence at a time when the people of the United States are celebrating their biggest weekend and American Independence.
