Tanola Jackson, Gleaner Writer

This little boy was understandably scared of Pitchy-Patchy at the Jamaica Cultural Development Commission (JCDC) Christmas Jamaican Style at Jonkunnu Festival and Christmas Brunch, held at Ranny Williams Entertainment Centre, Hope Road on Sunday, December 9.

The huge turnout of patrons at the annual Jonkunnu Festival and Christmas Brunch at the Ranny Williams Entertainment Centre on Sunday was a clear indication that the event was a success.

The festival, staged by the Jamaica Cultural Development Commission (JCDC) showcased the traditional Christmas customs including traditional folk forms and Jonkunnu bands.

When The Gleaner arrived at the venue, numerous display tents were set up around the grounds for those who wanted to purchase early Christmas gifts or food.

All day entertainment

Fun-filled activities and rides were a highlight of the day.

The children were kept entertained all day with rides such as the bounce-a-bout, donkey carts and mechanical bull ride. The latter attraction captured the most interest.

In the concert segment, Kemar Brown was the first to take the stage to tell an Anancy story.

Next up was a children's choir, followed by the festival's highlight, the Jonkunnu bands, which came from Kingston, Westmoreland, St. Thomas and St. Ann.

Jonkunnu characters included: Pitchy Patchy, Belly Woman, Policeman, Horse Head, Jack-In-The Green, Wild Indian, Actor Boy, Set Girls and the Devil. Each did their best to scare and terrorise young patrons, many of whom ran for cover.

At 4:30 p.m. The Peace Makers Mento Band from St. Catherine took the stage and performed Broom Wi Dung, Peep Inna Mi Pot, Solas Market among other songs.

Bands were later called on stage for a final parade before the festival ended. Overall this year's event went well, and patrons left feeling pleased with the day's outcome.

These children enjoy a donkey cart ride. - photos by Winston Sill/Freelance Photographer

Patrons tried to decide which character was scarier.