Promoters of the Cup Match Summer Splash annual concerts are all geared up for the opening night today in Par-la-Ville Car Park.

The events have quickly developed into the largest concerts of the year and a holiday staple, attracting more than 7,000 patrons for two shows.

Headlining the first concert are two reggae artists — Grammy nominated Jah Cure and Bermuda’s own Collie Buddz. Also included in the line-up are local sound systems Stalwart and SoulJAHOne, who will be performing a dub plate expo for the crowd.

Local entertainers will be Ali Malik and Ramon Clarke, with DJ’s Juggling J and Blackstar. Host for the evening is Bermuda’s Nadanja.

The production team, consisting of Veterans in Action, 441 Productions and Wild Apache Promotions, spoke to The Royal Gazette about the work that has been put into making sure this year is one for partygoers to remember.

“In the beginning the goal we had was to create an event to attract diverse crowds — people of all ages, races, cultures,” said Andrew Holmes of 441 Productions.

“Over the past three years we have done this. We just wanted to create a good time and the vibe is always fun.” Declan Harris of Veterans in Action, said: “People don’t really realise how much effort goes into events like these. It is a very risky undertaking but we have a great list of vendors, a great stage, lighting and sound. It’s taken a lot of people to put together. The City of Hamilton is awesome for allowing us to use such a neutral location and overall it just puts a lot of life into the city over the holiday.”

International artist, Jah Cure, arrived on the island yesterday afternoon. He said: “It feels great to be back, I love Bermuda. I’m back in paradise, thank god.

“There are a lot of festivals going on this weekend all over the world and they were trying to get me, but I want to be in Bermuda to be honest. The people can look forward to the best tomorrow night. I only provide the best. The Bermuda people are special people in a special place, in the middle of nowhere so these people deserve nothing but the best and the best of me.”

The Cup Match Eve concert on Wednesday July 27 will headline Grammy award-winning artist and “King of the Dancehall” Beenie Man with the Zagga Zow Band.

It will also include a performance from Reggae legend Sanchez who will be back in Bermuda after two decades.

Mr Harris, added: “We just want to thank first of all the patrons, because without your support this wouldn’t be possible.”

Digicel Bermuda, Goslings, Dunkleys and the Supermarket have also been major sponsors since the start of the event.

• Ticket packages are available online only at www.bdatix.bm. General admission packages are $100 and includes admission to both the July 23 and July 27 events. One hundred VIP packages are available for $300 each. General admission tickets are $85 for each show and $200 for VIPs.