Jamaica has prepared an endless galore of events for 2023, across culture, music, sport, gastronomy and adventure to welcome travellers from around the world. It is time to ‘come back to Jamaica’!
Songs for the Soul – Back with Bob Marley
In February, music fans will be treated to a dedicated, week-long celebration of reggae taking place in the capital, Kingston. An island-wide celebration of Bob Marley takes over the island from February 1 – 6, commemorating the life and achievements of the legendary superstar. Festivities begin with a ceremonial laying of a plaque at the Bob Marley Museum in Kingston followed by music concerts, symposiums, lectures, karaoke contests, a fashion show, movies and exhibitions around the city and at the Bob Marley Museum.
Joyful Get-Togethers – Parties, Festivals and Carnivals
Kingston and Ocho Rios will host the Carnival Jamaica Event Series at multiple venues from 12-16 April. This one-of-a-kind event is an expression of the island’s unique spirit, and will feature performances by amazing carnival bands. All will lead up to a Road March on the 16th in grand parade fashion, where people dress up and hit the streets with creative colourful costumes.
For an unusual party-on-the-beach that celebrates freedom of self and expression, save the date for Mocha Fest from May 25-30 in Negril – five days of joyous drinks, dances, and top-class Hip Hop and Caribbean entertainment to help you find your power and beauty in the company of free-spirited people that are be-YOU-tiful.
The earthy and inspirational 3-day Calabash Literary Festival is also returning this year to the rustic island outpost at Treasure beach from May 27 to 29, with a series of readings, interviews and open-mic sessions by leading literary figures such as Junot Diaz, Zadie Smith, and Chigozie Obioma.
The Beat Goes On… With Reggae in the Summer
Come to Jamaica in the summer and meet like-minded music and dancehall culture enthusiasts at the week-long Reggae Sumfest in Montego Bay from July 16 – 22 this year. Discover talented musicians and new music at this flagship festival dedicated to showcasing the island’s indigenous reggae music.
First started in 1993, Reggae Sumfest has been going on for close to 30 years now and has always received lots of love from visitors and media worldwide. Having featured A-list artists and names, such as Rhihanna, Kanye West, Usher, and Nicki Minaj, the Reggae Sumfest continues to showcase the best of reggae music, and will be featuring multiple lead events across various venues, details to be released after the new year.
You are in for an unforgettable experience that will not disappoint!
Celebrate Independence Day the Jamaican way
The first week of August is lined up with events and festival celebrations to commemorate Jamaica’s independence. Starting with a bang, the “Mobay Jerk & Food Festival” will kick off on August 1 giving families a complete ‘day out’ at a fun fest filled with food and performances from secular communities, followed by an exciting float parade and grand gala in the same week.
Move your body in Reggae Marathon 2023
Negril will host Jamaica’s premier international marathon “Reggae Marathon” on November 4. Runners of all pace levels, from amateur to professional marathoners are welcome and encouraged to join in with a 10k half marathon and a full marathon option. Run to your heart’s delight before logging in your personal records.
Ready to experience the culture of Jamaica? Click here to learn more about the exciting events happening on the island in 2023.