The Consulate General of Jamaica in New York on Tuesday, July 22 announced celebratory events for the island’s 63rd Anniversary of Independence.

Christopher Benjamin, community relations officer, said that the celebrations will be held under “the inspiring national theme, ‘Be Proud. Be Bold. In the Black, Green and Gold.’

“This anniversary is a moment of reflection, unity, and celebration of the resilience and vibrancy of the Jamaican people,” he said.

Benjamin invited nationals to participate in the following official events hosted by the Consulate General: Flag Raising Ceremony, Monday, Aug. 4, 9 a.m., Bowling Green, Manhattan; Independence Church Service, Sunday, Aug. 10, 9:30 a.m., Community Baptist Church of Englewood, 224 First St., Englewood, NJ 07631; and Jamaica Independence Gala, “Party with a Purpose”, Saturday, Aug. 23, 2025, 6:30 p.m., Marriott Marquis, Times Square, New York City.

“This grand celebration is the pinnacle of our independence calendar—a dazzling evening of culture, entertainment, and philanthropy,” said Benjamin, stating that, this year, the Consulate has set “a bold goal” to raise at least $500,000 in support of four critical Jamaican charities: Scholarships for Tertiary Students, The Jamaica Cancer Society, The Rita Marley Foundation Resource Centre for Girls and The Rose Town Foundation.

He said Skip Marley, Nadine Sutherland, Big Youth, and Sharon Marley will grace the stage in a “one-of-a-kind celebration of Jamaica’s 63rd year of independence.

“These iconic performers — each representing a unique era and energy of Jamaican music — will be backed by the incomparable Derrick Barnett and the Statement Band, delivering a live performance experience that will stir your soul and lift your spirit,” Benjamin said.

“And the vibes don’t stop there! Once the formal program ends, the dance floor comes alive as Road International takes control of the turntables, spinning the best in reggae, dancehall, and soca for a high-energy afterparty worthy of the black, green, and gold,” he added.

“Whether you’re coming to celebrate, support, or simply feel the rhythm of Jamaica in Times Square, this is the Independence Gala you won’t want to miss,” Benjamin continued. “Come party with a purpose and dance the night away in true Jamaican style!”

He also urged Jamaican nationals to support and attend community-led independence celebrations in their respective areas.

“Together, these collective acts of pride and solidarity across the Diaspora uplift our nation and keep the Jamaican spirit burning bright,” Benjamin said.

For more information, go to: www.jamaicaindependencegalany.com