Jamaica delivers cultural experiences this summer

 This summer, consumers can experience Jamaica’s authentic food, music, and culture at a variety of festivals and parties throughout the U.S.

Attending one of these events will allow people to experience the many wonders of the island and satisfy their Jamaica craving until their next visit.

“We are always looking for ways to share Jamaica’s culture through food, music and entertainment, no matter where they take place,” said Paul Pennicook, Jamaica’s Director of Tourism. “These summer events proudly feature legendary and up and coming talent, flavors and cultural experiences from Jamaica, and encourage people to make Jamaica their next travel destination.”

Upcoming Jamaican summer events

• Coney Island Reggae on the Boardwalk (July 2, August 6 & September 3)

Coney Island Reggae on the Boardwalk is a free, summer sound system series held on the iconic boardwalk at Coney Island, Brooklyn, West 20th Street.

Founded by DJ Carter Van Pelt in 2010, this event features sounds by New York area vinyl-only reggae artists.

This series will be held on the following dates: July 2, August 6, and September 3, 2017 from 3-7 p.m. 

• Music on the Main – Reggae Night, West Bend, WI (July 20)

Music on the Main is a festival in downtown West Bend that transforms Main Street into a wonderland of music, food, commerce and fun. To bring the full flavor of Jamaica to the people of West Bend, DJ Koja will be providing the rhythms and sounds of reggae in partnership with local entities.

The festival takes place on Thursday, July 20 from 6:30 – 9:30 p.m.

•  Grace Jamaican Jerk Festival, Queens, NY (July 23)

The 7^th annual Grace Jamaican Jerk Festival in New York attracts over 20,000 patrons including, foodies, reggae and soca music lovers, dance aficionados, and cultural enthusiasts to the most anticipated event of the year.

The Jerk Festival is known for delivering an enjoyable experience and is held annually in Roy Wilkins Park in Queens. Competing chefs put their culinary skills to the test to win the coveted Dutch Pot Trophy in the Jerk Cook-off and top artists including Allison Hinds, Morgan Heritage and Konshens are set to perform.  

• South Carolina Reggae Jerk & Wine Festival, Charleston, South Carolina (August 27)

The 4^th annual South Carolina Reggae Jerk Festival celebrates Jamaican Reggae music, jerk spices and wine parings on Sunday, August 27 at Magnolia Plantation and Gardens.

Guests can enjoy wine tastings, jerk samples, games, and reggae music from Coolieg and Lion Soul Reggae band as they browse the craft items on display. The festival is from noon to 7 p.m.

For more on Jamaica and Jamaican events, check out Visit Jamaica.