Travelers looking to take a break from the chilly winter temperatures can visit Jamaica for an exciting escape filled with diverse events. Through a continuous and wide-ranging program, Jamaica offers travelers insight into the island’s culture. This can be experienced at a range of festivals and events over the coming months.
“One of the most attractive attributes of Jamaica is our year round tropical weather, which is the ultimate getaway from the cold winter months,” said John Lynch, Jamaica’s Director of Tourism. “The programs offer a melting pot of diverse outdoor activities and events that showcase our culture, guaranteeing a memorable stay on the island.”
Jamaica’s fall and winter calendar includes the following:
Reggae Marathon, Negril – December 3, 2013
The Reggae Marathon, Half Marathon and 10k, now in its 13th year, is Jamaica’s premier international marathon event. Pulsating reggae music at each mile, keeps participants in an “irie” spirit, as they challenge themselves over distances of 42, 21 and 10 kilometers. The Marathon is operated to world-class standards, with the race set on an International Association of Athletics Federation (IAAF) certified course featuring water/aid stations at every mile. For more information, visit www.reggaemarathon.com
Accompong Maroon Festival, St. Elizabeth – January 6, 2014
The 274th maroon festival will once again celebrate the legendary Maroons of Jamaica who were freed by the Spanish and fled to the mountains to avoid recapture. This festival, which dates back to the 19th century, is celebrated with traditional singing, dancing, playing of the drums and blowing of the Abeng (horn). Visitors will also get to sample a variety of food and drink at the newly constructed African-styled Bickle (food) Village. For more information, visit: www.jamaicanmaroons.com
Carnival in Jamaica, Kingston – January 3- April 27, 2014
Over the past two decades, Carnival in Jamaica has united thousands of locals and visitors over a 10-week period for 28 fun-filled events. Beginning with Beach Jouvert, the Carnival ends with the Road March, a costumed street parade where revelers enjoy soca, calypso and reggae music. The events are being hosted by Jamaica Carnival Inc. and Bacchanal Jamaica. For more information, visit www.bacchanaljamaica.com
Jamaica Jazz & Blues Festival, Trelawny Multi-Purpose Stadium, Falmouth – January 30- February 1, 2014
This globally recognized event showcases performances from internationally acclaimed and celebrated artistes from a wide range of musical genres, including country, jazz, rhythm and blues and reggae. The festival features top international acts and Jamaica’s best local artistes. Some of the artistes who have performed over the years are: Celine Dion, Maroon 5, Billy Ocean, Michael Bolton and Kenny Rogers. For more information, visit www.jamaicajazzandblues.com
Reggae Month, Kingston – February 2014
Reggae month brings live music sessions, symposia and events dedicated to honor those who have contributed to the development of this indigenous Jamaican music form. Experience performances by top reggae acts as well as aspiring artistes at varied events in salute of Reggae Month. For more information, visit www.jariajamaica.com
Jamaica Fat Tyre Festival, St. Mary and Ocho Rios – February 15-22, 2014
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. For more information, visit www.smorba.com
Jamaica Tourist Board, www.visitjamaica.com