Saint Lucia Jazz and Arts Festival 2024 deemed “a significant success”

The Saint Lucia Jazz and Arts Festival attracted a diverse audience from across the Caribbean, including Barbados’ Minister for Tourism and International Transport, Hon. Ian Gooding-Edghill.

Gooding-Edghill attended Jazz 2024, setting aside his ministerial duties to participate in the event. He expressed satisfaction with the regional turnout, highlighting its significance for transnational integration.

Gooding-Edghill emphasized the festival’s importance for the Caribbean, describing it as an opportunity for people within and beyond CARICOM to experience what Saint Lucia has to offer.

He noted that the mixture of different peoples and cultures at the festival strengthens regional bonds throughout society, benefiting everyone.

“The Caribbean has much to offer, and events like this allow different cultures to meet and celebrate. I was pleased to see Barbadians traveling to Saint Lucia on my flight to join the celebration,” he said.

He also pointed out the economic benefits that come from regional integration, as residents travel and engage in local markets.

Gooding-Edghill highlighted that such events provide economic opportunities for each country in the region. “In a broader context, festivals like this allow our economies to benefit. During my visit, I explored Gros Islet, the Castries Market, and some of the local sights.”

The minister was particularly impressed by the festival’s lineup of performers, which influenced his decision to attend. “The headline cast was excellent, and that’s why I decided to take a couple of days off to enjoy the Jazz Fest.”

The 2024 edition of the Saint Lucia Jazz and Arts Festival concluded on May 12, featuring performances by Saint Lucian artist Arthur Allain, Soft Rock sensation Air Supply, and singer-songwriter Babyface.

Other notable acts throughout the festival included Chloe Bailey, Joe Boy, Davido, Voice, Teejay, Romain Virgo, Beres Hammond, and Machel Montano.

This year’s festival has been deemed a significant success by organisers, who have already started planning for next year’s event.

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