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The Jamaica National Heritage Trust (JNHT) plans to expand the seating capacity at the Seville Great House and Heritage Park in St Ann's Bay, St Ann, for this year's staging of Emancipation Jubilee.

The annual event, which honours the contributions of African ancestors during and after enslavement, begins on the evening of Thursday, July 31, and continues into the morning of Emancipation Day, Friday, August 1.

Executive Director of the JNHT, Leslie Harrow, said that following last year's event, the need for more seats in both the VIP and general areas was recognised.

"So what we have done is to expand and push back the area where we have the concession, and we got some space close to the general lawn that can accommodate another 2,500 persons," he said

In addition to seating, Harrow said that arrangements are being made for additional parking at the venue. He also said the popular artisan village will return for this year's Jubilee celebration, featuring expanded facilities and a larger food court.

"We have created a better space for them [and] we are getting a lot of requests for the food court. We had intended to look at 20... [and] have gotten 20 already, and persons are asking for more space," he said.

Harrow emphasised the significance of the event and the importance of honouring those who fought for freedom from enslavement.

Admission to the Seville Emancipation Jubilee is free; however, patrons must present a ticket to enter the venue. Tickets will be available at the JNHT headquarters in downtown Kingston, Seville Heritage Park in St Ann's Bay, and at the venue gate.