Roxroy McLean, Gleaner Writer

The float, 'Olympic Dream', designed by Larry Watson, is seen in construction. - Contributed

The Independence 'Float Parade' is back again, and is said to be bigger and better than any carnival, according to Minister of Information, Culture, Youth and Sports the Hon Olivia 'Babsy' Grange.

Addressing media personnel at a media tour of the Float Production Workshop at West King's House last Wednesday, the minister said the intention is to ignite the celebration of the nation's 46th anniversary.

"It is the view of this Government, the present administration, and certainly my view, that we should celebrate each year of our Independence in fine style," she said.

The event, which is set to begin noon on Independence Day, August 6, will have 10 fashionably designed floats, costumed groups and novelty acts.

The march will start from the gates of Ranny Williams Entertainment Centre, through Half-Way Tree, then down Marescaux Road and to its final stop, the National Stadium.

The celebration is proving to be a stellar event, and one important feature of the parade involves the public participation, where the public will act as a 'free for all' costume group, travelling behind the Byron Lee and the Dragonaires music truck.

The group will be open to all Jamaicans who will take part in the parade. Persons wishing to join the costume group are required to register at the Social Development Commission Offices on Camp Road. Registration started on Monday, May 28.

1962: A large crowd watches as the float parade passes through May Pen on Independence Day, 1962.