Jamaica is the hottest destination to visit to experience a host of sizzling spring and summer events. The island has an endless array of exciting festivals celebrating the music, cuisine, culture, fashion and people of Jamaica, promising a spirited and unforgettable escape.
“Jamaica is host to a number of exciting events that will give travelers the extra sizzle they need for their well-deserved vacations,” said John Lynch, Jamaica’s Director of Tourism. “Regardless of the season, the island offers an appealing menu of events that showcase its rich culture, heritage and captivating natural beauty that leave visitors wanting more.”
MARCH
Carnival in Jamaica (Feb. 6 – April 11) is a highly anticipated event for locals and visitors alike. Over the past 22 years, Carnival has grown to unite thousands of attendees for a ten week “feel good fest”. Carnival in Jamaica 2010 will offer twenty-eight high-energy, fun-filled events culminating with the Road March, a costumed street parade where revelers enjoy Soca, Calypso and Reggae music.
Jamaica continues to be the hottest destination for Spring Break, and Spring Break 2010 kicks off from March – April 2010. The exciting party season takes place in Montego Bay and Negril. Enjoy discounts at Coral Cliff and Margaritaville Montego Bay and Negril; The Groovy Grouper, The Jungle and other exciting attractions.
Fun in the Son (March 20) is one of the island’s most anticipated gospel events, dubbed The Premier Christian Festival in the Caribbean. Fun in the Son, billed as an alternative spring break, transforms Kingston for one evening of Christian entertainment and ministry that brings together a diverse audience interested in an upbeat, vibrant gospel celebration.
Surf the waves at the Jamaica Kiteboard World Cup (March 25 – April 3) taking place in Long Bay Beach in the island’s resort area of Port Antonio. The event is ten days of exciting kite surfing, which is an extreme sport with riders from around the world participating in a number of events such as speed races, stunts and free style. Competitors will vie for the euro 40,000 prize money.
APRIL
The inaugural Jamaica Cricket Festival (April 3 -18) will feature spectacular sporting events at Sabina Park in Kingston; Chedwin Park in Spanish Town; Port Rhoades Sports Club in St. Ann; and the Trelawny Multi-Purpose Stadium. Participants from Canada, Ireland and the West Indies will battle in Twenty20 and 50-over matches, as well as a three-day test. The tournament will be a family affair with exciting prize giveaways.
The Treasure Beach Off Road Triathlon (April 27) promises an exciting yet challenging event in the small fishing community of Treasure Beach. Hosted by Jake’s hotel, the triathlon attracts off-road racers and enthusiasts from Jamaica and around the world. The event features a 500 meter ocean swim, a 25K (13.7M) mountain bike and a 7K (4.3M) country run.
Montego Bay Yacht Club's Easter Regatta (April 2-5) is an equally exciting maritime activity for participants as well as spectators, in the captivating surroundings of Montego Bay. The first leg of the event is a race to Mosquito Cove, marking the start of a series of races in various classes, held over the Easter weekend.
MAY
Jamaica has a vibrant fashion scene with a host of shows featuring designers from Jamaica and around the world. The sixth annual StyleWeek Jamaica (May 28-31) and Fashion Block, held in the streets of New Kingston, have become major staples in the Jamaican entertainment / fashion industry. Internationally acclaimed designers such as Ed Hardy, Abaete and Julia Clancey have showcased their designs at this prestigious event. The three-day extravaganza, with its VIP cocktail receptions, seminars, and runway shows, will appeal to the die-hearted fashionistas from around the world.
For the literary enthusiasts looking to be romanced by powerful prose, the 10th Annual Calabash International Literary Festival (May 28-30) will feature over 30 authors and musicians from across the world who will read and perform during the three-day event. The festival will be held in Treasure Beach, St. Elizabeth and is free of cost to the public.
JUNE
The 10th Anniversary of Caribbean Fashion Week (June 9-14) will incorporate the best elements of the past nine years along with the customary presence of renowned Caribbean and international designers, supermodels and celebrities. Fashion savvy individuals will take delight in this extravagant affair, which is expected to take place at the National Indoor Sports Centre and other locations in Kingston.
Kingston On The Edge Urban Art Festival (KOTE) (June 18-26) provides a platform for contemporary artists to showcase their work that pushes conventional boundaries. Artists working in more traditional styles are also encouraged to participate as the festival celebrates the genius of art. KOTE will also be host to visual art shows, plays, concerts, an art auction, open houses, digital/multimedia shows and other events.
Culinary enthusiasts will enjoy Epicurean Escape (June 20-27). Hosted at the Breezes Grand Resort & Spa (Negril), the event is a celebration of great cuisine and fine wines, offering interactive culinary seminars, grand galas, wine and champagne tasting, and pastry making classes.
JULY
The Portland Jerk Festival (July 4) is a culinary escape for visitors wanting to sample Jamaica’s most famous style of cooking—Jerk. Dishes include Jerk Lobster, Jerk Conch, Jerk Sausage, Jerk Pork and Jerk Chicken along with the traditional side dishes such as rice and peas, festival, breadfruit and yam. Visitors can also enjoy performances from local artistes and community dance groups, art and craft displays, bounce-abouts, merry-go-round and face painting.
Enjoy a range of culinary delights from the sea, including peppered shrimp and escoveitched fish, at the Little Ochi Seafood Carnival (July 11), hosted in Alligator Pond, on Jamaica’s South Coast. Top local reggae musicians and vintage artistes will provide nonstop entertainment.
Dubbed the “world’s greatest showcase of reggae music,” Reggae Sumfest (July 18-24) is Jamaica’s premier music event showcasing top local and international artistes. Hosted in the resort capital of Montego Bay, the event offers patrons an electrifying mix of performances from a range of genres. Previous headliners include Shaggy, Beenie Man, Damian ‘Jr. Gong’ Marley, Queen Ifrica, Morgan Heritage, Jazmine Sullivan, Toni Braxton, Kerri Hilson, LL Cool J, Rihanna, Mary J. Blige among others.
AUGUST
Summer sizzles in Jamaica with exciting parties such as The Absolute Temptation Isle (August 5-8). This event includes a series of eleven parties across the Negril resort area. Participating venues include: Waves Negril, Risky Business, Tamboo, Margaritaville and Hedonism II.
The Red Stripe Dream Weekend (August 5-8) is a super inclusive premium weekend in Negril complete with events during the Independence weekend celebrations in Jamaica. Over the course of the last seven years, this event has also grown to become a staple on the Jamaican entertainment calendar for party lovers.
The National Independence Float Parade and Grand Gala (August 6) stands one of the most significant celebratory event 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 affair.