The festival dates back to the 19th Century and commemorates the successful Maroon insurgency against the English who enslaved them. The two-day event offers visitors the opportunity to experience the unique yet diverse culture of Jamaica and the wider Caribbean. A gala parade of costumed and uniformed groups, including traditional Jonkanoo dancers as well as modern dancers showcasing a cross section of Jamaican culture. Soca parties, reggae and calypso bands, kiddies' parade and more. Of course, Jamaica's pop music , reggae, has become known and loved around the world, made famous by the legendary Bob Marley, and much of Jamaica's culture and heritage revolves around its extraordinary accomplishments in the world music arena.
Musical events are many and varied in Jamaica, from jazz and gospel to reggae and even oldies.
If you're planning a visit, it's a good idea to find out what's going on on-island in terms of musical entertainment, from intimate concerts to major productions. In early January this Negril festival at DeBuss features Father Ramsey, Judy Mowatt and other gospel singers. At the Countryside Club in Kingston, this is a fun oldies musical extravaganza series, featuring some of Jamaica's best vintage performers. In October in Montego Bay, this heritage festival features local and international jazz artists. In June in Ocho Rios, the festival includes international performers from Europe, the U.S., Japan and Jamaica, with concerts in Ocho Rios, Montego Bay and Kingston.