Hope Gardens set to host Earth Hour Acoustic Concert

Jamaica is tuning in to the global call for environmental action with the upcoming Earth Hour JA Acoustic Concert at Hope Gardens, Palm Drive, on Saturday, March 22.

Starting at 5 pm, the concert will feature an all-star lineup including Luciano, Keznamdi, Sevana, Irie Soulja, ZAILA-JAZZ, and Brianstar Entertainment.

Organised by the ESIROM Foundation, the event forms part of the WWF’s Earth Hour initiative, encouraging people worldwide to “Give an Hour for Earth.”

This symbolic act of switching off lights is a reminder of the urgent need to address climate change and nature loss.

"The climate is changing because of us, which means we also have the power to create change," said Khalia Hall, Sustainability Manager at ESIROM Limited and the ESIROM Foundation. "Earth Hour is more than just turning off lights. It’s a moment to educate, inspire, and take action. Through music, a language we all understand, we connect Jamaicans to the urgency of protecting our planet."

Jamaica's participation in Earth Hour began in 2013 when Earth Hour organisers collaborated with Jamaicansmusic.com, managed by Alex Morrissey. That year saw the launch of the first Earth Hour Acoustic Concert, using music to rally support for climate action. Over 5,000 patrons have since enjoyed the immersive experience of live music paired with an environmental cause.

This year’s concert coincides with World Water Day, emphasising the value of water as a critical and often overlooked resource. Hall highlighted that the event is also a platform to promote sustainability at public gatherings, urging event organizers to rethink their use of materials like single-use plastics.

Patrons can participate in the ESIROM Foundation Sustainability Corner, an interactive booth with educational games, quizzes, and giveaways focusing on environmental conservation. Additionally, the Unicycle Booth will accept donations of gently worn clothing to support community programs. Participants can also join a hands-on activity transforming old clothing into toys for pets at the JSPCA.

Wildlife lovers can engage with nature at the Wildlife Wonders petting zoo, featuring iguanas, turtles, snakes, and birds.

Furthermore, Uber is supporting the cause by offering patrons US$3 off two trips to the event, promoting carpooling to minimize emissions and ease parking congestion.

How to attend?

Tickets for the Earth Hour JA Acoustic Concert are free and available at earthhourja.com/events. Patrons can secure up to five tickets, which will be electronically distributed and scanned upon entry. To reduce waste, attendees are encouraged to participate in the "Bring Yuh Owna Tings" (BYOT) initiative by bringing reusable items instead of relying on single-use plastics in the Food Village.