Etana, Melixxa to headline JWOF's Run-A-Boat Culture and Food Festival in Tamarac

Jamaican reggae singer Etana, recording artist Melixxa and popular Caribbean entertainer Raul Blaze are among the featured attractions for the 2026 Run-A-Boat Culture and Food Festival, scheduled for Saturday, November 14, at Tamarac Park in South Florida.

Organized by Jamaican Women of Florida (JWOF) in partnership with the City of Tamarac, the annual festival will celebrate Jamaican food, music and cultural traditions while raising funds for scholarships and community initiatives benefiting women and girls in Florida and Jamaica.

The event will run from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Tamarac Park, located at 7501 North University Drive, bringing together members of South Florida's Jamaican and Caribbean communities for an afternoon of entertainment, authentic cuisine and family-friendly activities.

Internationally acclaimed reggae artist Etana, known for songs including “Wrong Address,” “Roots” and “I Am Not Afraid,” will make a special appearance at the festival.

The Grammy-nominated singer, whose music frequently explores themes of love, empowerment and social consciousness, is among Jamaica's internationally recognized contemporary reggae performers.

Festivalgoers will also be treated to a live performance by Melixxa, while Raul Blaze returns as host, bringing his signature Caribbean humor and energetic stage presence to the celebration.

Organizers say the entertainment lineup is intended to complement the festival's broader focus on Jamaican heritage, food and community connections.

A major attraction will be the variety of Jamaican and Caribbean dishes available from participating food vendors.

The festival takes its name from Jamaica's traditional “run-a-boat” gatherings, where friends, relatives and community members come together to prepare and share meals, often pooling ingredients and cooking in an informal, communal setting.

The tradition has long been associated with fellowship, creativity and the sharing of Jamaican cuisine, values organizers hope to recreate through the annual celebration.

This year's festival will also introduce the Run-A-Boat People's Choice Awards, allowing attendees to recognize their favorite food vendors in three categories: Fan Favorite, Best Jamaican Dish and Best Jamaican Dessert.

The awards are designed to highlight the culinary talents of participating vendors while encouraging festivalgoers to sample the variety of dishes on offer.

Beyond the food and entertainment, the event will feature a Cultural Corner with guest Steve Higgins, offering attendees an opportunity to explore Jamaican cultural traditions and heritage.

An artisan marketplace will showcase local businesses, vendors and entrepreneurs, providing a platform for small businesses to connect with customers and promote their products.

Families attending the festival will also have access to a free Kids Zone featuring activities and entertainment for children.

Organizers say the combination of food, music, cultural activities and family entertainment is intended to create an inclusive celebration for Jamaicans, other Caribbean nationals and the wider South Florida community.

The event also serves as a fundraiser for JWOF, a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering women and girls of Jamaican descent through education, mentorship, leadership development and community service.

Proceeds from the festival will support the organization's scholarship programs and other initiatives aimed at expanding educational opportunities and strengthening communities in Florida and Jamaica.

JWOF has established itself as an organization within South Florida's Jamaican diaspora, organizing cultural events, networking opportunities, mentorship programs and charitable initiatives.

Through its scholarship program, the organization provides financial assistance to students while promoting academic achievement, personal development and leadership among young women.

The Run-A-Boat festival forms part of those efforts, combining cultural preservation with fundraising to support the organization's broader mission.

Admission to the November 14 event is $20 in advance and $25 at the gate, while children under 10 will be admitted free. Parking will also be available at no charge.

Tickets can be purchased through Eventbrite at JWOFRunABoat.eventbrite.com.

Organizers are encouraging residents and visitors throughout South Florida to attend the festival and support its scholarship and community programs while enjoying an afternoon of Jamaican culture, cuisine and entertainment.