AUGUST 27-29

Among the events taking place in conjunction with the D.C. version of Jamaica’s 31st independence celebration is a Heritage Foundation presentation of a bust of Norman Manley. But few of Jamfest’s attendees will pay attention to that: Far more appealing will be the jerk chicken and Red Stripe—and, of course, the entertainment. Jamaicans are suckers for a ballad, and high on this year’s lineup is Pam Hall, who sings a version of Whitney’s “I Will Always Love You.” Also performing: the Fabulous Five, Lovindeer, Ischelle Cole & the Strikers Posse, Al Brown & Inner Force, Gem Myers, Delroy Wilson, the Determination Band, Carl Malcolm & Positive Vibration. Friday from 10 a.m.-7 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m.-8 p.m. at Freedom Plaza, 14th & Pennsylvania Ave. NW. FREE. (202) 452-0660. (Alona Wartofsky)