There is something sweet about 16! And this year's edition of the acclaimed Jazz in the Gardens (JITG) music festival features some of the biggest names in R&B, neo-soul, and reggae - Jill Scott, Charlie Wilson, Ari Lennox, Sean Paul, Jodeci, Keyshia Cole, El DeBarge, Erykah Badu, Mike Phillips and a soulful Sunday with Chandler Moore, Kierra Sheard, and Pastor Mike Jr.
It's a lineup that Tony Williams, Star 106 Hits programming director, described as "awesome".
And The Nassau Guardian and Star 106 Hits have partnered with Bahamasair Hotel Dello and GoGoFlorida to give lucky Bahamians the opportunity to once again take in this unique experience.
People can pick up a copy of The Nassau Guardian, fill out the printed entry form, clip it out and drop off in the entry box at The Nassau Guardian's Carter Street office to give themselves a chance at winning the grand prize package of two-day concert tickets, airfare on Bahamasair, car rental with GoGoFlorida, and accommodations at Hotel Dello, a Tapestry Collection by Hilton in Dania Beach.
Hopefuls can also enter via the Star 106 Hits website.
JITG entry deadline is Monday, March 6. The winner will be drawn on March 7.
"Once again, we are thrilled for the
opportunity to give a grand prize that will include concert tickets for both nights, for two, airfare on Bahamasair, hotel accommodations with Hotel Dello, whom we welcome for their first-year partnership, and transportation courtesy of GoGoFlorida. I am sure that our winners will definitely enjoy the 16th annual JITG," said Williams.
A number of supplementary winners will also win concert tickets to the March 11-12 festival at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens.
"Since 2009, The Nassau Guardian and Star 106 Hits have partnered with Jazz In The Gardens and Bahamasair and GoGoFlorida to send our readers and listeners to the most exciting festival in the Florida area. Once again, we are thrilled for the opportunity to do so," said Williams.
Woodrow "Woody" Wilson, sales and marketing consultant, Bahamasair, said they were happy to once again partner with The Nassau Guardian, Star 106 Hits and GoGoFlorida to provide airlift to Miami and Fort Lauderdale for Bahamians wanting to take in the popular music festival.
"It's been productive for Bahamasair each year," said Wilson.
Bahamasair is offering airfare to Miami starting at $263 roundtrip, taxes included; group rates are also available. Telephone 702-4140.
Wilson was also excited for the new hotel partnership with the minimalist chic Hotel Dello, a Tapestry Collection by Hilton in Dania Beach, and introducing them to the Bahamian public.
"I went by, looked at the hotel, and it's nice," said Wilson. "The ambiance is nice."
For Bahamians flying in for JITG, Wilson is hoping to resurrect the popular Bahamian night event hosted at the partner hotel and to which Bahamians flying in for the music festival were invited to attend.
Wilson sees the event as two-fold, bringing Bahamians together who travel to Miami and Fort Lauderdale for the music festival and introducing Bahamian culture to the market with Bahamian libations - think gin and coconut water - and light hors d'oeuvres.
Wilson, who has been a frequent JITG attendee, said he is looking forward to this year's music festival.
"Any time you have Charlie Wilson in the lineup, you don't have to say anything else. He's a draw unto himself," he said.
The electric 13-artist lineup of award-winning new and old school R&B, neo-soul, reggae and gospel artists is billed as a "sweeter-level" celebration of Black music and culture.
Miami Gardens Mayor Rodney Harris said over the years, JITG has evolved on many levels, and in its 16th year, he said, the festival continues to showcase amazing talent and different genres of music for everyone who attends to enjoy.
"People come from all over for this unique experience. Jazz is the means by which we celebrate grandly music, food and culture, together," said Harris.
In addition to the live performances, the 2023 JITG music fest will feature exotic cuisine and offer exquisite retail buys in the Merchandise Village.
Two-day ticket prices to the music festival are $1,525 gold ambassador (two seats in first row, two restroom passes, two passes to official opening night party and one parking pass); $1,425 silver ambassador (two seats in second or third rows, two restroom passes, two passes to official opening night party, and one parking pass); $325 platinum; $335 platinum aisle; $225 prime; $235 prime aisle; $195 reserved; $205 reserved aisle; and $135 general admission.
Parking lots open at 2 p.m., gates open at 3 p.m. and performances start at 4 p.m.
JITG will also host its Opening Night Party featuring Bo Weezy, DJ Tight and more on Friday, March 10 at Hard Rock Stadium from 8 pm. to 1 a.m.
The Women's Impact Luncheon, an inspirational experience designed to inspire women (and men) to live centered, active, fulfilled and balanced lives, is back by popular demand in honor of United States Women's History Month, under the theme "Empowering Your Purpose".
Guest speakers will deliver expertise on how to create a happy, healthy, spiritual and centered existence during the luncheon which will be held on Friday, March 10 between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.
JITG LINE UP
Saturday, March 11
Jill Scott
Jodeci
Ari Lennox
Adam Blackstone & The Legacy Experience
El DeBarge
Sunday, March 12
Erykah Badu
Charlie Wilson
Sean Paul
Keyshia Cole
Mike Phillips
Chandler Moore
Kierra Sheard
Pastor Mike Jr.
Click here to read more at The Nassau Guardian
