Jamaica’s popular summer festivals are returning this summer after a two-hiatus. Including Carnival, and ranging from rum to reggae, the series of authentic Jamaican events, which starts this month, include parties, live music, and culinary extravaganzas for visitors to experience across the island.
2022 also marks Jamaica’s 60th anniversary of independence, adding an additional element of excitement to the proceedings.
Some of the notable events include:
Carnival in Jamaica (June 24-July 16): The island’s iconic Carnival celebration is back with a special edition music lovers won’t want to miss. While Carnival is typically held in April each year, this year’s unique summertime event is expected to attract thousands of locals and international visitors who will converge for nearly a month of festive parades, colourful costumes, and high-energy beach parties featuring soca, dancehall, calypso and reggae performances. Carnival events kick off this week and ramp up into the first week of July (3-10), including in the main centres of Kingston, Montego Bay and Ocho Rios Carnival, and then concluding in St. Thomas on July 16.
Jamaica Rum Festival (June 25): Jamaica’s festival season kicks off this week with the return of the Jamaica Rum Festival in Montego Bay. This event will showcase the country’s excellence in rum-making and participants will discover the flavours and traditions that make this island favourite so special. Alongside world-class rum tastings, the Jamaica Rum Festival offers delicious food options, great music and entertainment. The festival will also be offered virtually for those who can’t attend in person.
Reggae Sumfest (July 18-23): One of Jamaica’s most anticipated events of the summer returns to Montego Bay in July with the staging of the legendary Reggae Sumfest music festival. Reggae and dancehall fans can take part in a slew of activities over the long weekend, including the popular Blitz party and stage performances featuring big-name reggae artists such as Koffee, Shenseea, Dexta Dapps, Spice, Sizzla, and many more.
Dream Wknd (July 29-Aug. 1): This annual summer party brings a high-energy vibe to the typically chill white sand beaches of Negril. Headlined by Jamaica’s most popular DJs and entertainers, Dream Wknd attracts a young bikini-clad crowd with a series of live concerts and beach parties that start during the day and continue long after the sun goes down.
MoBay Jerk Festival (Aug. 1): Hosted annually on Emancipation Day, this sizzling summertime festival in Montego Bay gives foodies the opportunity to sample some of the island’s best jerk cuisine. In addition to spicy jerk fare, the family-friendly event includes cooking demonstrations, cultural performances, a dedicated children’s village, and a live stage concert featuring some of Jamaica’s top reggae acts.