20 years on and still the Best Party in the Caribbean

After setting festival benchmarks and establishing a long standing history as the best party in the Caribbean for years running, the annual Saint Lucia Jazz is set to record another milestone.

The 2011 edition of the vastly popular musical event, which represents the biggest activity on the Saint Lucia’s Tourist Board’s (SLTB) special events calendar, is celebrating two decades of existence with its 20th edition. For the first time the renouned regional event was simutaneously launched in two Caribbean nations; Saint Lucia and jamaica last month, and being launched in a third - Trinidad and Tobago on February 9. A fourth island launch for the French Caribbean will take place later this month.

Addressing audiences at the Aura Resturant and Bar in Port of Spain, Saint Lucia's Director of Tourism Louis Lewis said, "In true legendary style, the first set of world acclaimed acts would take to the stage on April 30, to be followed by a steady stream of international renowned artistes throughout the two-week period before the curtains came done with the usual fireworks display on May 8."

Lewis said the survivability of Saint Lucia Jazz was attributed to constant improvements and innovations in the product and the way it which it was presented to patrons. That approach he said "had allowed the government, the SLTB and its valued partners to grow the event; feature a healthy cadre of Saint Lucian entertainers alongside regional and international counterparts; and attract increasing visitors from around the world to the island’s shores."

Several innovations will characterize the 20th anniversary edition like devoting specific days to varying genres of music. Wednesday and Thursday nights will feature Straight Ahead Jazz with the weekend shows dedicated to World Music; Rhythm and Blues (R&B) as well as Funk and Contemporary Jazz."

The 2011 Saint Lucia Jazz lineup is headlined by six time Grammy winner John Legend and includes R&B superstar Trey Songz, accomplished acts like Jazz fusion quartet Yellowjackets, violinist Regina Carter, Saint Lucian saxophonist Augustin 'Jab' Duplessis, saxophonist Maceo Parker, Hatian Creole Band Carimi, African vocalist Angelique Kidjo, Saint Lucian vocalist Mervyn Wilkison, Jamaican reggae band Morgan Heritage, and many more.

The early release of the exciting and diverse line-up allow patrons adequate time to begin booking flights and accommodations in order to be part of what continues to be the best party in the Caribbean.

For more information about the island of Saint Lucia call 1-800 456-3984, or visit www.saintlucianow.com