Pan on the Ave still on for Independence Day

Kejan Haynes

Even though the Independence Day parade and fireworks show have been halted or subdued, Pan on the Ave, the annual celebration of Steelpan on Ariapita Ave, will go on as planned. 
This was confirmed by both the organiser of the event Ayanna Garcia and Pan Trinbago President Beverley Ramsey Moore. 

“As far as I know plans are going ahead with the event. Up to last night I was in contact with the chairman of that board Ayanna Garcia, as you know that (group) is independent from Pan Trinbago but we do collaborate with that. But as far as I know the event is on, “Ramsey Moore said. 

This was confirmed by the organiser as well. 

“Yes, it will continue as normal on Independence Day,” Garcia said. “We are collaborating with Pan Trinbago and the city of Port of Spain and making it a grand closing of Steelpan month and Independence Day.”

Garcia is the chairperson of the Woodbrook St James Community Association which hosts the event annually. The event is dedicated to her late father Cleveland Garcia, Former chairperson and councillor for Woodbrook. The event is dedicated to his honour every year. 

Asked if Government had pulled sponsorship for this year’s event since cost cutting was one of the reasons cited for canceling the parade, she said, “This is not accurate. We have no word about not getting funding.” 

Port-of-Spain Mayor Chinua Alleyne also confirmed the event will still take place. 

“Preparations for Pan On D Avenue are moving forward nicely. We are inviting all Trinbagonians to join us on Ariapita Avenue at 6PM to celebrate our Independence with our National Instrument,” he said.