YOUR summer is about to get a whole lot better with the host of fun activities being planned at Skate City, one of Montego Bay’s newest attractions.
Dubbed a party on wheels for its thrilling indoor musical vibrations, owner Shawn “DJ Kentucky” Stewart intends to show patrons why Skate City is more than just another skating rink.
“Throughout the summer we plan to add a few activities to celebrate those who, based on observation, are the most improved, the most consistent, and [we’ll] have a little award show. Closer to the end of summer we will then have a skate-off with all the awardees,” Stewart told the Jamaica Observer’s LetsTravelCaribbean.com.
And there’s more.
Youngsters are expected to be out in their numbers for ‘Summer Teen Splash’ on Independence Day. Then the day after, on August 7, soca lovers will revel in the excitement of the first ‘Hip Strip Carnival’ at the Jimmy Cliff Boulevard-based venue.
Though it’s only been operating for five months, Skate City has already become a favourite among families in the western end of the country. Stewart credits this to the exciting product being offered for not only professional and amateur skaters, but also for those who are simply seeking a spot to hang out with their friends after a long day at work. During our visit, LetsTravelCaribbean.com noticed that the crowd included a lot of visitors who chose to enjoy beverages from the well-stocked bar while lounging in the ample seating areas available.
With their extended opening hours and additional days for skating, Skate City is ready to take over the summer. Music will play a vital role in this.
Stewart, who is also the resident disk jockey, takes pride in standing in front of his mixing consoles playing upbeat tunes for his patrons. The beat helps young skaters hone their talent without them realising it, the operator told LetsTravelCaribbean.com.
“It is easier to learn because, when bumping to a beat sometimes you don’t even realise that you are actually skating. A lot of people have learned to skate here since February,” said a proud Stewart.
It costs $500 for each 30-minute session.
“That 30 minutes entails non-stop entertainment and good vibes. The bar is there with seating areas for non-skaters to chill and also have a good time — they don’t even have to pay for skating, just come and listen to the music, have a drink and chill. The skating is basically an attraction,” he said.
Skating is done at patrons’ own risk, and Skate City does not encourage those under the influence of alcohol to get on the rink.
Location: Donway, a Jamaican-style village
36 Jimmy Cliff Boulevard, Montego Bay, St James
Opening hours: 4 pm-11 pm
Tuesday-Sunday
Instagram: @Skatecity876