Motor vehicles and pedestrians make their way along the busy King Street that will be the centre of attraction in the downtown Kingston area today, with an expected explosion of bargains for shoppers. - Ricardo Makyn/Staff Photographer

Today is the day for the spectacular 'Christmas in the City, Downtown Comes Alive' shopping spree, where persons will enjoy massive discounts on items in the island's premier commercial district.

Several celebrities will be involved in the dynamic activities as they exchange uptown shopping for downtown's wide range of bargains.

Dancehall artiste Latifa 'Tifa' Brown, who is upbeat about being part of the hype, said she will be purchasing items for the less fortunate.

"There are persons who can't afford to buy things for the Christmas which is unfortunate, so I will treat someone to something nice," Tifa told The Gleaner.

Exotic jewellery

She is also looking forward to taking advantage of the sale on clothing and jewellery, as she confessed she has always been impressed with the exotic jewellery for sale in the city.

Another dancehall artiste, Munga, said he was looking forward to getting involved in the shopping to purchase items for his fans.

"A just mi fans still enuh, me want to try to help the less fortunate by giving them a gift for the Christmas," he said.

Munga, whose real name is Damion Rhoden, said it was a good way to mix with his fans as he shops around, enjoying the prices that will be slashed by up to 50 per cent.

Police presence will be increased in the area for the event, which is expected to draw a massive crowd to the downtown shopping area.

Area Four crime chief, Deputy Superintendent Michael Phipps, told The Gleaner that there would be an increased number of police personnel in and around the downtown area.

In the meantime, shoppers can park for free at the Urban Development Commission car park located at Harbour Street. Shoppers can then hop on a shuttle from the car park to the commercial district.

Live entertainment will accompany the day, with Justice Square along King Street being the hub of activity.

Justice Square is expected to be transformed to host hundreds of vendors.

In commemoration of its 120th anniversary, Scotiabank will host a fashion show, featuring Saint International and celebrity models on King Street from 6 p.m. to midnight.

While shoppers are invited as early as shops downtown open, the day's schedule goes from 3-10 p.m.

The programme, launched last Wednesday, is part of an initiative for the redevelopment of downtown Kingston.

nadisha.hunter@gleanerjm.com