On the 15th of July 2023, Grizzly’s Plantation Cove in Priory St Ann, Jamaica, will host the first-ever Ital Food Festival. Showcasing Jamaica and Rastafaria’s role in celebrating ital cuisine, the festival will pioneer the growth of the world’s plant-based movement. The event will headline I Wayne, Queen Ifrica, Natural Black, Jah Mason, and Agent Sasco as well as Khalilah Rose, J’Adiore, and Azalineage.
A stoner’s paradise for sure, the event will be conducted by world-renowned Rastafarian chefs, led by the iconic Dr Aris Latham. With over 150 vendors with what is described as, “elevated Ital cuisine, natural products, fashion, arts, and wellness practitioners offering healing treatments.” The event was created by UK-based, Portmore, St Catherine native Michael Cunningham and his wife Felicia.
Hailing from Portmore, Michael is no stranger to ‘Ital,’ defined by organically grown vegetarian food cooked without salt. “We believe that food has the power to unite people and a plant-based diet can nourish both the body and soul,” he explained.
“We have had this concept from independence and even before that and it’s not just food, it is a total livity. So that’s why we wanted the festival to reflect that. So it’s not just gonna be just food,” he added.
Michael’s wife Felicia went to say;
“We chose artists that truly embody ital livity. We were especially interested in having artists on board who live that way, and who have farms. Artists like Jah Mason, Agent Sasco – he has his farm-to-table concept – and Iwayne, who embodies ital livity. So it was very important for us to have artists that understand the roots and culture.”
Michael also went on to add that;
“It is a festival that galvanizes the attention of the diaspora and beyond, bringing together those with diverse interests, from wellness to, holistic Health, those who breathe a plant-based lifestyle and relish amazing gastronomical experiences. The festival is also aimed at attracting Reggae lovers, and those seeking uplifting cultural experiences.”
The event will go a long way in showcasing the Rastafarian culture and will give people a better understanding of the cuisine. It’s not just about smoking marijuana but there is a holistic approach to better health and the festival will showcase that. Pencil the 15th of July 2023 into your calendar and make some time if you happen to be in the area.