In honor of Jamaica’s 50th Anniversary of Independence, the destination’s Carnival season, which runs from February 18 to April 15, will include an action-packed schedule of cultural festivities.
Jamaica’s capital city of Kingston will transform into a mecca of entertainment during Carnival, including costumed parades, colorful floats, and the pulsating sounds of soca, reggae, and calypso music.
“The Carnival season is a celebratory time when visitors and locals alike take part in Jamaican-style festivals,” said John Lynch, Jamaica’s director of tourism, in a written statement. “As we commemorate our 50th Anniversary of Independence this year, this Carnival season takes on special significance in also honoring our heritage.”
The following is a sampling of Jamaica’s Carnival season events:
All-Island Carnival (February 18 – April 13)
This series of high-energy events will take place across the island and feature live entertainment from popular soca and dancehall performers from the Caribbean. The event kicks off and culminates in Kingston at the UDC Car Park in New Kingston. Visit www.allislandcarnivaljamaica.com.
Bacchanal Jamaica (February 24 - April 15)
Bacchanal Jamaica, the leading Mas Band, will hold its signature events under the theme Future Shock. Most of its major events will be hosted at the MasCamp, Stadium North in Kingston. Visit www.bacchanaljamaica.com.
Visit www.visitjamaica.com