Feast & Fun: 10 Must-Visit Food Festivals in Jamaica

In recent years, Jamaica has been diversifying its tourism product by adding vibrant food and drink festivals to the annual line-up of events. Jamaica’s cuisine was influenced by our Amerindian ancestors, as well as the various ethnic groups which have made the island home for various reasons, namely the British, West Africans, Indians, Chinese and Lebanese. From spicy jerk chicken and sizzling curries to refreshing tropical fruits, Blue Mountain coffee and rum, Jamaica’s food scene is a sensory explosion that beckons food enthusiasts from all corners of the globe. In this article, we will dive into the tantalizing realm of ten Jamaican food & drink festivals where traditional recipes, international influences, lively music and infectious energy blend together to create an unforgettable gastronomic and cultural experience.

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What’s Inside

1. Kingston Kitchen
2. Jamaica Rum Fest
3. Jamaica Food & Drink Festival
4. Blue Mountain Coffee Festival
5. Ital Food Fest
6. Little Ochi Seafood Festival
7. Curry Festival
8. Boston Jerk Festival
9. Montego Bay Jerk Festival
10. Restaurant Week

1. Kingston Kitchen

Kingston Kitchen is more than just a food festival— it’s a culinary movement that celebrates the vibrant flavours and culinary heritage of Jamaica. Founded in 2011 with a vision to showcase the richness of Jamaican cuisine, Kingston Kitchen has become a beloved institution in the country’s culinary landscape. With its lively and welcoming atmosphere, the festival creates a platform for local chefs, food entrepreneurs, and artisans to share their talents and creations with a wider audience. From the sizzling grills and tantalizing aromas to the infectious beats of reggae music, Kingston Kitchen embodies the spirit and essence of Jamaica. It brings together people from all walks of life, creating a sense of community and fostering a deep appreciation for the diverse culinary traditions that make Jamaica’s food scene so unique. Kingston Kitchen is a testament to the power of food to bring people together, celebrate cultural diversity, and create unforgettable experiences.

• When: July (recurring event)
• Where: Hope Gardens

2. Jamaica Rum Festival

The Caribbean produces some of the world’s best rums and our history is intricately intertwined with the spirit. Rum production in Jamaica dates back to the 17th century where it was produced from fermented sugarcane and molasses, quickly becoming one of the island’s chief export products.  Jamaican rums range from clear overproof “white” rums to the deep flavourful golden varieties aged for years in oak barrels. Rum is woven into our culture, added to our cakes and sorrel at Christmas, used as a folk remedy for the common cold and even at wakes to give our deceased loved ones a good “send-off”. In 2019, Jamaica’s tourism ministry held the first ever Jamaica Rum Festival to celebrate the beauty and history of our rum. This two-day event marries delicious Jamaican rum with good food, music and our unique culture.

• When: Last event held in June 2022
• Where: Montego Bay (formerly held in Kingston)
• Learn More: Jamaica Rum Festival Recap & Highlights
• See Also: How to tour Jamaica’s three main rum distilleries

3. Jamaica Food & Drink Festival

The Jamaica Food & Drink Festival began in 2014 as an annual five-day celebration of the island’s vibrant culinary scene, where food and drink enthusiasts gather to indulge in a delightful fusion of flavours, culture, and creativity. This highly anticipated event showcases the diversity of Jamaican cuisine, from traditional dishes rooted in the island’s history to innovative and contemporary culinary creations. The festival serves as a platform for local chefs, mixologists, and food entrepreneurs to showcase their skills, pushing the boundaries of Jamaican gastronomy with events like Pork Palooza, Crisp, Picante and Vintage Night. Easily the most expensive festival on the list, one can save a few bucks by purchasing a season pass for all 5 events, or simply attending one event– the one you think your taste buds would most enjoy.

If waiting around for JFDF once a year is too much, take advantage of the Jamaica Food & Drink Kitchen which is now open year-round in Liguanea, and offers nightly cooking classes and an ever-expanding array of confections and other peculiar niceties.

• When: October (recurring event)
• Where: Kingston Waterfront, Hope Gardens

4. Blue Mountain Coffee Festival

The Jamaica Blue Mountain Coffee Festival began in 2018 as an annual celebration of one of the world’s most sought-after coffees. This festival pays homage to the rich history and craftsmanship behind Jamaica’s renowned Blue Mountain coffee, known for its exceptional quality and unique flavour profile. Set against the backdrop of the majestic Blue Mountains, the festival offers a captivating experience for coffee enthusiasts and curious visitors alike. Attendees have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the world of coffee, from roasting demonstrations to tasting sessions and barista competitions. The Jamaica Blue Mountain Coffee Festival not only showcases the exquisite flavours and aromas of this prized coffee but also highlights the dedication and expertise of the farmers and industry professionals who cultivate and produce it. With live music, cultural performances, and local cuisine to complement the coffee-centric festivities, this festival truly captures the essence of Jamaica’s coffee heritage, inviting visitors to savour every sip and embrace the magic of the Blue Mountains.

I only attended this festival in its inaugural year, so the festival brings nothing but excellent memories to mind. However, a sudden 200% price increase and poor execution in 2023 angered many patrons. I’m hoping for a smoother festival in 2024 as I truly think this festival deserves a permanent spot in Jamaica’s culinary landscape.

• When: March (recurring event)
• Where: Newcastle JDF Training Ground
• Learn More: Jamaica Coffee Festival Recap & Highlights
• See Also: Is Jamaican Coffee Worth the Hype & Price Tag? (spoiler alert: Yes!)

5. Ital Food Fest

The idea of hosting an ital food festival was conceived by Michael and Felicia Cunningham, a British-Jamaican couple who wanted to showcase the rich history and culture of ital food on a global stage. Ital food, often associated with Rastafarian culture, is a dietary practice born in Jamaica that emphasizes natural, plant-based foods in their purest form. Derived from the word “vital,” ital food not only nourishes the physical body but also carries spiritual and ethical significance. The Cunninghams brought their exciting concept to the right ears, and now the inaugural Ital Food Fest will make history on November 25, 2023! The event will showcase ital (vegan) dishes from star chefs such as Chef Troy Levy as well as cooking demonstrations and a concert headlined by outstanding local artistes such Agent Sasco and I-Wayne, among others.

I was happy to attend the event’s media launch on the east lawns of Devon House a few weeks ago. We were treated to a night of excellent music and ital dishes like pumpkin bisque, kale and arugula salad with jackfruit salsa, savoury ackee gizzadas and vegan muffins and tarts for dessert. If the festival is anything like the media launch, I expect that people will be talking about Ital Food Fest for weeks to come, and it will earn a spot on the list of Jamaica’s most anticipated events.

• When: November 25, 2023.
• Where: Plantation Cove, Priory

6. Little Ochie Seafood Festival

Not to be confused with the popular north coast town of Ocho Rios, Little Ochie is a seafood restaurant located in Alligator Pond, a quiet fishing village on Jamaica’s south coast. This rustic restaurant was opened in 1989 by Evrol “Blackie” Christian and quickly became an island favourite for authentic Jamaican seafood. Every summer, Alligator Pond comes alive with the Little Ochie Seafood Festival which celebrates Jamaican seafood and prepares the fishermen’s catch of the day with the bold and bright Jamaican flavours we love.

• When:July (recurring event)
• Where: Little Ochie in Alligator Pond, Manchester

7. Curry Festival

The Kingston Curry Festival in Jamaica is a delightful celebration of the country’s love for curry. Held in the vibrant capital city of Kingston, this festival showcases a wide variety of curry dishes representing the different cultures and culinary traditions which make up Jamaica’s motto: “Out of Many, One People.” From traditional Jamaican curry goat to Indian-inspired curries, visitors can savour a range of aromatic and spicy delights. The festival also features cooking demonstrations, where renowned chefs share their secrets and techniques for creating mouthwatering curry dishes. Live music and cultural displays add to the festive atmosphere, creating a memorable experience for all curry enthusiasts. The Kingston Curry Festival is a true celebration of Jamaica’s multicultural heritage and its passion for culinary excellence.

Can’t make it to Kingston? Check out the Westmoreland Curry Festival held on the grounds of the Manning’s School instead.

• When: Last held December 3, 2022
• Where: Hope Zoo

8. Boston Jerk Festival

The Boston Jerk Celebrations, formerly known as the Boston Jerk Festival, is an exciting event that celebrates the beloved Jamaican jerk style of cooking. Located in the picturesque town of Port Antonio, this festival brings together locals and visitors to indulge in the smoky, spicy, and succulent flavours of jerk which was created by our Taino ancestors then later perfected by African runaway slaves in the surrounding hills. The festival showcases a wide array of jerk dishes, from chicken and pork to seafood and vegetables, all marinated in a tantalizing blend of herbs and spices. The highlight of the festival is the jerk cooking competition, where talented chefs showcase their skills and creativity in preparing the best jerk dishes. Attendees can also enjoy live music, dance performances, and cultural demonstrations that highlight the vibrant Jamaican heritage. The Boston Jerk Festival is a fantastic opportunity to experience mouthwatering flavors in the picturesque setting of my favourite beach by the same name.

• When: Last held in July 2022
• Where: Next to Boston Beach in Port Antonio

9. Montego Bay Jerk Festival

It wouldn’t be a Jamaican food festival list if two jerk festivals weren’t on here, huh? The Montego Bay Jerk Festival is a sizzling celebration of Jamaica’s famous jerk cuisine with over a decade of mouthwatering excellence, held in the stunning coastal city of Montego Bay. Visitors to this festival are treated to an explosion of flavours as they sample a variety of jerk dishes, including chicken, pork, fish, and even vegetarian options. Live music adds to the festive ambiance, creating a true Jamaican party atmosphere. The Montego Bay Jerk Festival is another must-visit event for food lovers in Jamaica.

• When: Next event date– August 1, 2023.
• Where: Catherine Hall Entertainment Centre

10. Restaurant Week

Restaurant Week in Jamaica is a highly anticipated annual event since 2004 which now showcases the island’s vibrant food scene across six parishes. This week-long festival brings together over one hundred participating restaurants from upscale establishments to hidden gems, all offering specially curated menus at discounted prices. Restaurant Week is a fantastic opportunity for locals and visitors to explore the diverse flavours of Jamaican cuisine and indulge in culinary delights. Restaurant Week caters to every budget with its affordable “Nyam and Scram” specials, a high-end “Epicurean” spread and three mid-range menus in-between.

• When: November (recurring)
• Where: 100+ participating restaurants across Kingston, Port Antonio, Ocho Rios, Montego Bay, Negril and Mandeville.

Wrap Up

There you have it: an extensive write-up of 10 Jamaican food festivals and events worth visiting. Some are already household staple names, while others are new entrants into the island’s booming gastronomical landscape. Which have you visited, and which would you like to attend? Let me know in the comments section down below. I have a lot more articles lined up for summer, so subscribe to never miss a beat.

Also, did you know that a Jamaica Chocolate Festival is on the horizon? Stay tuned. ‘Til next time.

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