Shaggy and Friends Concert – KINSGTON
January 2, 2016
International reggae singer Shaggy stage his biennial concert to support the Make a Difference Foundation. Several international and aspiring artists will share the stage with Shaggy as they raise funds for the Bustamante Children’s Hospital and other charities.
Accompong Maroon Festival – ACCOMPONG, ST. ELIZABETH
January 6, 2016
The 277th staging of this festival will once again celebrate the legendary Maroons of Jamaica, African slaves who were freed by the Spanish and established settlement in remote parts of the island for refuge from the English invasion. Dating back to the 19th century, this festival celebrates with traditional singing, dancing, drums and the Abeng (horn). Also sample tasty treats at the newly constructed African-style Bickle Village.
Rebel Salute – PLANTATION COVE, ST. ANN
January 15-16, 2016
What began as a show to commemorate the January 15th birthday of reggae icon Patrick “Tony Rebel” Barrett has become a staple on the live music events calendar. Rebel Salute has captured the adoration of reggae lovers worldwide and is a celebration of Jamaican roots music.
Jamaica Fat Tyre Festival – OCHO RIOS, ST. ANN
February 16-22, 2016
This seven-day mountain biking event is an exhilarating voyage that includes lung-busting climbs, technical trail rides, fast descents, double-track and single-track. It has featured some of the world’s top mountain bikers, including Cam McCaul, Kyle Ebbett and Kathy Strand.
Paradise Lost – OCHO RIOS, ST. ANN
March 10-12, 2016
Paradise Lost is a three-day music festival on Jamaica’s north coast, featuring some of the top Electronic Dance Music artists from around the globe, who will pay tribute to the beauty and history Jamaica, as well its contributions to modern music.
Kingston City Run, Kingston
March 11-13, 2016
The Kingston City Run is an exciting weekend of activities, including a Health and Wellness Fair, musical events and, of course, the Kingston City Run Half Marathon, 10K and 5K races. The route takes participants past several of Kingston’s historic sites and attractions into Emancipation Park. Best of all, the proceeds are all for charity.
Westmoreland Curry Festival – SAVANNAH-LA-MAR, WESTMORELAND
April 24, 2016
Excite your taste buds at the Westmoreland Curry Festival, the largest food festival of its kind in this hemisphere. The event will feature the best and most unique curry dishes Jamaica has to offer, from classic stews to new innovations.
Calabash Literary Festival – TREASURE BEACH, ST. ELIZABETH
June 3-5, 2016
The world-famous Calabash festival is a three-day literary festival of readings, music and storytelling. The festival, which features established and upcoming writers, is open to the public and held every two years.
Kingston on the Edge – KINGSTON
June 19-28, 2016
Let the art of the artists inspire you at the Kingston on the Edge Art Festival. This is an event that showcases Jamaican artists and their talents in painting, sculpture, music, photography, dance, poetry, theatre, music and other performing arts. The weeklong event allows artists to express themselves and inspire you through their work.
Portland Jerk Festival – FOLLY OVAL, PORTLAND
July 3, 2016
Portland Jerk Festival is the largest annual jerk and food festival in Jamaica, which has been a major calendar event for the past 14 years. This food and music juncture is staged at the heritage site at Folly Estate in Portland, and includes live wholesome family entertainment, Jerked food and other tasty delights.
Reggae Sumfest – MONTEGO BAY
July 17-23, 2016
Reggae Sumfest is Jamaica’s only weeklong festival dedicated to showcasing the island’s indigenous reggae music while also promoting Jamaica as a prime summer destination. Reggae Sumfest is now widely regarded as one of the world’s premier reggae events and attracts visitors and media from all across the globe.
