
by Brian Major
Last updated: 10:20 AM ET, Tue June 11, 2024
Travelers to Jamaica will find an array of music and
cultural events taking place across the island this summer, highlighted by the
31st year of the Reggae Sumfest concert series.
The island’s music, culture and food will take center
stage for locals and visitors alike, kicking off July 14-20 with Montego
Bay’s Reggae Sumfest, billed as the Caribbean’s largest reggae festival. The concert
series pays tribute to Jamaican musical genres, with performances from top reggae artists
including YG Marley and Capleton.
Grammy Award-winning superstar Babyface will also be a Sumfest featured performer,
and the event includes themed parties, a showcase of top DJs and Jamaican dancehall
culture, and Sumfest All White, an “immersive” celebration featuring throwback
musical hits.
“With a multitude of authentic and lively events across the
whole island, we are expecting another exciting summer showcasing the best of
Jamaican culture,” said Edmund Barlett, Jamaica’s minister of tourism.
“We’re well equipped to welcome both new and returning
guests to our beautiful island this summer as well as through end of year,”
Bartlett added.
Other summer events celebrating the island’s culture will
include the Jamaica Rum Festival on July 18. Produced from sugarcane grown in
the island’s mineral-rich soil, Jamaica’s signature rum the event will spotlight
Jamaica’s world-class
rum and cuisine, art and live music.
The Portland Paradise Weekend (August 2-5) will offer four
days of immersive
tours through the region’s beautiful natural environment paired with “over-the-top”
parties, including a dancehall-fueled Electric Vybz night.
“Dream Wknd” from August 2-6, is a week-long live music festival featuring top dancehall,
soca, hip hop and pop artists and DJs. On the same dates, Ocho Rios will host
the “Best Weekend Ever,” with six events, including a soca dance fest and beach
celebration.
“Our lively festivals, authentic cultural experiences,
unspoiled nature, and tranquil resorts will continue attracting visitors
looking to unwind or for the adventure of a lifetime,” said Donovan White, Jamaica’s
tourism director.
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