Many Canadians think of Jamaica as a winter sun destination, however visitors are always pleasantly surprised to discover what Jamaica has to offer during the summer months.
The island really heats up throughout summer with numerous festivals and events that offer a true flavour of Jamaican culture.
“Jamaica has an impressive list of upcoming events this summer,” said Paul Pennicook, Jamaica’s director of tourism. “Our motto, ‘Out of Many, One People’ certainly depicts the country. Jamaica is full of diversity in not only people but hobbies and fascinations. Yes, we have amazing beaches, but we are also a prime destination for foodies, music buffs, trend-setters and art connoisseurs.”
The following is a list of upcoming summer events and activities in Jamaica:
Kingston On The Edge (to June 29)
This festival is a week-long celebration of art and the artists who are inspired by the city of Kingston. Under the theme “Transitions,” this year’s staging will feature live music, art installations, Kingston Dub Club, short film screenings and documentaries, a downtown architectural bus tour, and a solo art exhibition at Devon House. (http://www.kingstonontheedge.org)
All Jamaica Grill Off (June 29)
The eighth annual All Jamaica Grill Off (AJG) competition will take place at the Hope Botanical Gardens in Kingston. The AJG attracts Jamaica’s best recreational and professional grilling chefs for an intense grilling competition and is a must-go for foodies. Attendees can enjoy unlimited sampling from competitors’ booths, all-day music and stage entertainment, a fully-equipped and supervised children’s village, games area, face painting and more. (http://www.facebook.com/alljamaicagrilloff)
International Reggae Day (July 1)
International Reggae Day (IRD) is a 24-hour global media festival celebrating the best of Jamaica’s creativity and its impact on culture worldwide. The IRD Kingston festival is a five-day experience anchored by a JulyOne live concert streamed from Emancipation Park in Kingston. There will be special performances complimented by exhibits, sunset yoga and a digital art exhibit projected on the wall of the Jamaica Pegasus hotel. Other cities participating in IRD are New York, Miami, Honolulu, London, Sao Paulo and New Delhi. (http://www.ireggaeday.com)
Portland Jerk Festival (July 5)
The Portland Jerk Festival is the largest annual jerk and food festival in Jamaica and will be celebrating its 15th year. Slated for the scenic Heritage Site at Folly Grounds in Port Antonio, the event will feature local chefs putting their own spin on classic jerk dishes as well as gourmet presentations. Internationally renowned Chef Judson Todd Allen known as the “Architect of Flavour” will also be in attendance. The festival will take place from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. and includes live family entertainment. (http://www.facebook.com/originsofjerk)
Reggae Sumfest (July 12-18)
This much anticipated annual reggae event showcases the best talents in roots, rock and reggae music. In keeping with their motto, “Promoting Music, the Universal Force,” top Jamaican acts and international artists perform each year. Held at Catherine Hall in Montego Bay, this year’s lineup includes international superstar Jennifer Hudson, Grammy-winning rapper Common, and Empire star and rapper Yazz The Greatest. Local acts will be Beenie Man, Cocoa Tea, Capleton, Luciano, Romain Virgo, Konshens, I-Octane and Christopher Martin. (http://www.reggaesumfest.com)
Makka Pro Surf Contest (July 18)
This much-anticipated surfing event takes place at Makka surfing beach in Saint Thomas for two days of competitive surfing in three divisions: open men, open women and juniors. Makka Pro brings together regional and professional surfers who compete for the cash prizes as well as bragging rights. (http://www.jamsurfas.webs.com)
SPF Weekend (July 31 to Aug. 3)
SPF Weekend is Jamaica’s high-energy summer party experience for guests aged 21 years and older. SPF Weekend takes place in St. Ann on Jamaica’s Independence Day with different themed parties every night, a favourite among locals and travellers alike. (http://www.spfweekend.com)
Dream Weekend (Aug. 5 to 9)
Dream Weekend is an annual party series which is held around Jamaica’s Independence weekend. The five-day event is filled with 10 various themed events taking place in Negril. Thousands of patrons participate in the Dream Weekend parties which include Yush, Twisted Spiritz, Igloo, Daydreams and culminates with the Dream Live concert. (http://www.jamaicadreamweekend.com