KINGSTON, JAMAICA – Once burdened with the moniker of the “crime capital,” downtown Kingston has emerged as a vibrant hub of creativity, culture, and entertainment, experiencing what many are calling a cultural renaissance. Over the past 15 years, the city has transformed, reclaiming its status as a global cultural destination—a movement driven by passionate stakeholders, artists, and entrepreneurs.
Christopher Issa, CEO of S Hotels Jamaica, is among those celebrating this resurgence. “We used to be known as the crime capital, and thankfully, Kingston has made tremendous strides to put itself back on the map among cultural cities,” Issa told South Florida Caribbean News. His hotel brand is fully committed to supporting this revival, embracing the city’s dynamic energy and rich artistic heritage.
A City Reawakens
The resurgence of Kingston’s cultural landscape is evident across multiple sectors. Kingston Creative, a nonprofit arts organization founded in February 2017 and dedicated to promoting the city’s artistic identity, has been at the forefront of this transformation. The organization has brought new life to Downtown Kingston. They do this through art walks, cultural tours, and colorful street art murals. Now, it is a must-visit place for both locals and tourists.
Kingston’s cultural revival has also been bolstered by its 2015 designation as a UNESCO Creative City of Music—a fitting title for the birthplace of reggae.
This global recognition has fueled renewed interest in the capital’s deep musical roots, with projects like the soon-to-be launched Alpha Music School Tour set to offer visitors a glimpse into Jamaica’s storied musical past.
The Alpha Institute, known for producing legendary musicians, is preparing to welcome tourists eager to learn about Kingston’s profound influence on global music.
A Growing Culinary Scene & Signature Events
Beyond music and art, downtown Kingston’s food scene is growing. A new group of young Jamaican chefs is changing local cuisine.
“The world today is thirsty for culture, and Kingston has a lot to offer,” Issa remarked. “We’re seeing growth in our cultural food offerings, with several new restaurants opening up, each adding to the city’s evolving gastronomic identity.”
Kingston has a unique energy and festive spirit. Events like Jamaica Carnival, the Boys & Girls Athletics Championships, and themed parties highlight this. These events, combined with a flourishing nightlife scene, are attracting culture-seekers from around the world.
Reggae Month & Bob Marley’s 80th Birthday Tribute
As February approaches, excitement is building for Reggae Month, a celebration dedicated to Jamaica’s most famous musical export. This year, the festivities carry added significance as the country commemorates what would have been Bob Marley’s 80th birthday.
S Hotels Jamaica, in collaboration with the Bob Marley Foundation, is curating a special celebration on February 6th.
“We will have a tour bus leaving from the S Hotel in Kingston, making stops at the Bob Marley Museum, Tuff Gong Recording Studio, and culminating at Culture Yard in Trench Town,” Issa revealed. The experience will offer fans a chance to immerse themselves in Marley’s enduring legacy while exploring the very streets that helped shape reggae’s global impact.
A Historic Pardon & A Bright Future
In another significant cultural milestone, outgoing U.S. President Joe Biden recently granted a posthumous pardon to Jamaica’s national hero, Marcus Garvey. While some have advocated for full exoneration, Issa views this as a pivotal step in the right direction. “The pardon is a very good first step,” he said, acknowledging its importance in recognizing Garvey’s global influence.
As Kingston continues its remarkable cultural revival, its future looks brighter than ever. From street art to fine dining, from reggae to Carnival, Jamaica’s capital is proving that it is more than just a city—it is a movement, a vibe, and a living testament to the island’s boundless energy and creativity.
Kingston is becoming a key cultural spot. It has more cultural experiences, heritage sites, and creative projects. Best of all, the city is not just the heart of Jamaica. It is also one of the most exciting cultural places in the world.
