Thousands packed the Antigua Recreation Grounds on Friday as the One Nation Caribbean Music Festival opened with a strong first night, marked by visible regional turnout and a packed performance schedule.

Dominican and St. Lucian flags dotted the crowd as artists from across the region took the stage. One of the night’s most talked-about moments came when Prime Minister Gaston Browne, performing under his stage persona “Gassy Dread,” appeared alongside Jamaican entertainer Mr. Vegas.

The show also featured performances by Jamaican acts Masicka, Capleton, Christopher Martin and Gramps Morgan, while Dominica’s Signal Band injected high-energy bouyon into the lineup. Local performers Tian Winter, Claudette Peters and Burning Flames also featured.

Festival activities continue Saturday from 5 p.m., with gospel star Tasha Cobbs Leonard headlining a programme that includes regional and local gospel artistes.