Jamaica's Most Notable Fall, Winter Events

jamaicaClients 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 ata range of festivals and events over the coming months.

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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. 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. Visit www.jamaicanmaroons.com.

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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. 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. 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. 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.

Visit www.visitjamaica.com.