The Jamaica Star :: Entertainment :: Day parties on the rise

Krista Henry, Staff Reporter

These two females must have been a 'Tease' for their male counterparts as they attended the Summer Outbreak Party, held at West King's House Road, on Sunday, June 22. - Winston Sill

Seeing the sun go down at a party is not a regular occurrence in Jamaica but day parties are carrying a swing of their own, not only in the summer, but all year round.

While some patrons prefer the bleaching until the sun is up at stage shows, street dances and parties, day events have different advantages that are making them a success. Longer partying hours, a more causal, carefree vibe and no worries about an early lock off due to the noise abatement acts could make partying during the day a new tradition.

Different reasons

Over the years, there has been an increase in the parties held in the day, including events such as, Luau, Malibu Sunset, It's Tha Party, the Cooler Fête and the ATI/RTI party weekends. While it seems like a good idea now, promoters at the time had different reasons for hosting their events during the day.

The recently held Rum Punch was a success at the Cable and Wireless Golf Academy, seeing more than 2,000 patrons enjoying the music, food and beach vibe. Its eighth edition, Rum Punch has always been a day party held from 2 p.m. until midnight. According to Rum Punch promoter Desmond Steel, he wanted to change the party scene a little bit by having a day event.

Family fun

"At the night parties, you don't get to show off yuh clothes too much and we just wanted something to break the ice. Night time, you go out and stand in a corner. You have a much freer vibe at day parties; there's a family fun vibe," Steel commented.

Daydreams has been a long standing day event having being staged for the last four years in St Thomas, Ocho Rios, Negril and Miami. Held from 2 p.m.-10 p.m., Daydreams was kept in the day to make the most of the dreamy environment of the Solaris Estate in St Thomas where the party originated. Daydreams promoter P.J. Wright claims, "The beauty of the Solaris Estate couldn't be seen in the night, so we kept the party in the day. We find venues that can work with that theme. People prefer the casual atmosphere rather than dressing up."

For the upcoming third edition of Summer Musique on July 27, the day schedule gives the party a crazier vibe. The day event in the Musique brand of parties, according to promoter Marlon Campbell,is aimed at creating a different mix reminiscent of old school barbecue days.

Campbell claims that unlike the night edition Musique, Summer Musique gets a whole lot crazier. "It's by the poolside with a bounce-a-bout, so you're allowed to be younger. The music is just laid-back so it's about having fun, there's a free environment where you wear whatever you want," Campbell said.