Travelers Get A Taste Of Jamaica’s Culture with Summer Festivals Showcasing A Range Of Categories
From cuisine, sports and fashion to arts and entertainment, Jamaica has a festival that will match a range of interests
KINGSTON, Jamaica – The Jamaica Tourist Board has unveiled an assortment of festivals and celebrations designed for visitors to experience the diverse offerings of the destination during the summer.
Visitors will sample authentic jerk and fresh seafood at culinary festivals and party until dawn at popular reggae concerts across island.
The following is a list of Jamaica’s sizzling summer events:
Makka Pro Surf Contest, Makka Beach, St. Thomas, Jamaica- July 19-21
This surfing event brings together regional and professional surfers. One of the largest events to be held in the eastern end of the island, the contest helps in the promotion of Jamaica as a surfing destination. The Makka Pro Surf Contest is part of the Caribbean Challenge Cup.
www.jamsurfas.webs.com
Reggae Sumfest, Catherine Hall, Montego Bay –
July 21-27
Dubbed the “world’s greatest showcase of reggae music,” Reggae Sumfest is Jamaica’s premier music event showcasing top local and international artistes. The event offers patrons an electrifying mix of performances from a range of genres. Grammy award winning singer and songwriter Miguel and rapper Flo Rida will headline the festival, while Beenie Man, Lady Saw, Damian ‘Junior Gong’ Marley and Tarrus Riley are among the local artistes set to perform. www.reggaesumfest.com
Seville Emancipation Jubilee, Seville Heritage Park, St Ann – July 31-August 1
Under the theme Forever Free, the jubilee will be held on the eve of the 175th anniversary of the abolition of slavery. Known as the island’s premier Emancipation celebration, the event pays tribute to Jamaica’s African ancestry and features cultural performances and live entertainment. http://www.jnht.com
Mobay Jerk Festival, Catherine Hall, Montego Bay – August 1
Held at the Catherine Hall Complex in the tourism capital of Montego Bay, this festival allows visitors to enjoy jerk cuisine and live entertainment in a fun-filled setting. www.montegobayjerkfestival.com
Jamaica International Reggae Film & Music Festival, Ocho Rios, Montego Bay & Port Antonio
– August 1-5
This five-night affair will celebrate Jamaica’s music culture and Jamaican-based film makers. Recognition will also be given to women in film with a tribute to the late Jamaican actress Madge Sinclair. www.reggaefilmfestival.com
Dream Weekend, Negril- August 1-6
Dream Weekend is an inclusive event complete with a series of themed parties during Jamaica’s Independence weekend celebrations. Over the course of the last seven years, this event has grown to become a staple on the Jamaican entertainment calendar for party lovers.
www.jamaicadreamweekend.com
Summer Playground Fantasy- SPF Weekend, St Ann-
August 2-6
SPF Weekend is Jamaica’s annual weekend of parties for the mature-minded and sophisticated. Patrons will celebrate Jamaica’s Emancipation and Independence holiday weekend in style at seaside-chic venues, interact with locals and dance the days away to the beats played by popular international and local DJs. www.spfweekend.com
International Reggae Wine Festival, Montego Bay – August 2 & 3
The event, dubbed “the ultimate wine experience” will be held at Secret Sea Wind Club, featuring some of the world’s best wines and spirits from Jamaican and international wine purveyors. The festival will also showcase the latest trends in island fashion and arts and craft.
www.internationalreggaewinefestival.com
National Independence Float Parade and Grand Gala, Streets of Kingston – August 6
This stands as one of the most significant celebratory events on the Jamaican cultural calendar. The event unfolds in the streets of Kingston and will represent the achievements of the Jamaican people in various areas of life. Colorful floats, costumed groups, music trucks, classic cars and marching bands will adorn the streets of Kingston for this spectacular cultural affair. www.jcdc.gov.jm
For more information or to book a vacation to Jamaica, visit www.visitjamaica.com
