The Best Time to Visit Jamaica

• Where to Remain in Jamaica

When is the Best Time to Visit Jamaica?

The finest time to go to Jamaica is amid April to May and November to mid-December. These months fall under the shoulder season and circumvent top crowds, so a lot of deals on lodgings, air travel, and facilities are available. The climate is amazing as these durations generally elude the summer heat as well as the rainy/hurricane season too.

• Ideal Time for Pleasant Weather: Mid-December to mid-April.
• Top honeymoon period: April to June.
• Best Time for Savings: September through November.
• Best Time for Families: Late August.
• Best Time to Avoid Crowds: May to mid-December.
• Best Time for Partying: December to mid-April.
• Best Time for a Cruise: Mid-April to May and November to mid-December.

• Best Time to Visit Jamaica: Most travelers visit Jamaica in the winter (December-March), which is the high season for tourism in the country. Peak season also means all services are available, beaches are crowded, and costs are elevated. The best time to visit Jamaica to miss this tourist rush and higher prices yet still benefit from operating services and good weather is from November to mid-December, just before peak season begins. The climate is beautiful as the rainy season ends, the average daily temperature is warm but not scorching at 26°C, hurricane season has finished, and hotel and flight deals are easy to locate.
• Best Timeframe to Reserve Hotels & Resorts in Jamaica: You can get some great deals if you book well in advance or look out for last-minute special offers, but generally if visiting in the winter it is advisable to make reservations 2 to 3 months ahead. At certain hotels and resorts, think about reserving a year ahead for the Christmas holidays or Spring Break between February and March. Mid-April to mid-December can be like a summer sale and provide the best deals, with 20% to 60% discounts. In contrast, between January and March, room rates can spike to more than $700 per night at some hotels, so do not rely on last-minute specials if visiting then.
• Best Time to Visit Jamaica for Optimal Conditions: From mid-December through the start of April represents Jamaica`s winter season and the peak opportunity to experience great weather. Consistently warm, bright days and very limited rainfall can be anticipated. Sea temperatures average between 26-29°C while daytime highs hover around 25°C. Conditions feel cooler during this winter period and far more agreeable than the sweltering summer months. Trade winds along the north coast play a moderating role, keeping surroundings fresh and amenable particularly for hiking in the Blue Mountains and overnight stays. Visibility under water is marginally enhanced at this time of somewhat less precipitation, resulting in prime viewing for activities like snorkeling and scuba diving.
• Ideal Time Period to Visit Jamaica for Partying: Most cultural festivals occur during the early months of the year, making it the preferred time to go if making merry and revelry are the objectives. Festivals like Bob Marley Week in early February, Spring Break in March, and Carnival in mid-April take place during this stage.
• Ideal time for Waterfalls: Jamaica is home to a few famous waterfalls which rank among the top attractions on the Caribbean island. Two of the most spectacular are the 180-foot waterfall of Dunn’s River Falls and the 20-foot waterfall and aquamarine pool known as the Blue Hole in Ocho Rios. While open all year, visiting between June and November outside of peak cruise ship season allows exploring the falls with fewer crowds. On non-cruise days from 8 am to 4 pm offers the best opportunity to experience the waterfalls without large volumes of visitors. Checking the Cruise Bulletin can confirm cruise-free days to plan waterfall excursions at optimal times.
• Optimal Time Period for Golf: Several construction projects over the past two decades have significantly improved Jamaica`s golf courses. One course even made a brief cameo in the James Bond film “Live and Let Die”. While rainfall does rise from 50mm in April to 102mm in May, playing golf despite potential showers is still viable mid-April through late May as it will be easier to secure a convenient tee time. Otherwise, for a golf vacation with the most dependable weather conditions, the best time to visit Jamaica is during the winter peak season from mid-December to mid-April.”
• ideal Period to Honeymoon in Jamaica: Jamaica is one of the most popular getaway destinations for newlyweds. It is the biggest and most diverse Caribbean island, providing something for everybody. Whether you are searching for a beach vacation or an adventure-filled honeymoon, favor tranquility or liveliness, want luxury, or are on a tight budget, Jamaica has alternatives for all. Winter is usually the driest time to visit and the most popular time to go, however, some honeymooners choose to visit at other times of the year, when there are fewer crowds and lower rates. The best time for a honeymoon in Jamaica depends on if you are bound to a precise time of year or want to minimize costs. Deciding on the ideal time for your honeymoon relies on what you want to do during your remain. The dry season is a great time for getting out and exploring as the rain is less likely to ruin your plans. The low season is a good time to go if you like hot temperatures and you don’t mind the risk of rain. Bearing all of this in mind, April to May and November to early December are the best times for a honeymoon if you are not fixed on a specific date but appreciate fewer crowds and lower prices.

Jamaica Travel Seasons

• High Season (mid-December to mid-April, especially March to mid-April for Spring Break): The busiest and most expensive duration to visit Jamaica is during the winter and vacation season – Christmas, New Year, Spring Break, and Easter. Winter is the peak time in Jamaica. The climate is sunny, warm, and regulated by the cool trade winds. Ocean temperatures are perfect for swimming, the hurricane period is finished, and the dry season has initiated. The island sees an surge of tourists from around the globe fleeing cold northern winds, so lodgings charge their highest prices. If traveling during the peak season, book no less than 3 months in advance to ensure accommodations and excursions are accessible.
• The Period Between Peak Season and Rainy Season (mid-April to May, November to mid-December): This transitional time of year presents an ideal opportunity to visit Jamaica. From mid-April to May, one can enjoy amazing weather as crowds begin to thin out following the busiest season, allowing for a relaxing getaway in the sun. November through mid-December also features pleasant conditions at the conclusion of the rainy period, with lodging completing renovations, full services, and less crowded beaches and resort areas prior to the launch of peak season. Those considering a cruise may want to book during this time frame to avoid large numbers at port locations.
• Low Season (May-November) in Jamaica: The time period between May and November, which includes two wet seasons from May to June and again from September through mid-November, is considered the low season. This phase also overlaps with Jamaica`s hurricane term, officially from June 1 to November 30. Throughout these months, beach destinations, resorts, and dining spots will see fewer crowds. Additionally, top-notch lodging can often be found at greatly decreased rates – sometimes even at 60% less. It is crucial to note that locations may be undergoing construction. Jamaican hotel owners tend to schedule necessary repairs and major renovations during the low season. Services may be reduced and not all restaurants and bars at resorts and lodging places will be fully operational as staffing could be trimmed.

Jamaica Weather by Month

With year-round warm tropical weather, every day offers beach opportunities in Jamaica. Winter months experience heat and lack of rainfall, while summers bring humidity alongside the temperature peaks in June and July. The northern coastline areas including Montego Bay, Negril, Kingston, and Ocho Rios witness lowest temperatures in January and highest in mid-year. Two rainy seasons occur, with the first from May to June and second from September to November overlapping with hurricane season from June 1st to November 30th when storms peak in late summer. Heaviest rainfall affects Jamaica between June and November, usually climaxing in October and November. Between rains, two dry seasons provide relief from July to August and December to April.

The weather in Jamaica can differ somewhat depending on one`s location, though variations are minor island-wide. Regions like the mountainous Blue Mountains experience cooler temperatures, while warmer conditions prevail in southern Kingston away from coastal winds. Most tourist accommodations lie in the north and west where trade winds temper the heat, preventing excessive warmth. From September to November, northern coastal areas see a slight uptick in rainfall whereas Kingston in the mountains` lee receives less at around 711 millimeters annually, contrasted with 1,575 millimeters in Negril. As temperature and precipitation diverge only modestly across Jamaica, the description below portrays average monthly weather.

• Jamaica Weather in January: January is the coolest month of the calendar year in Jamaica, making it one of the most popular times to visit as the average daily temperature is a mild 25°C with a night-time low of 21°C. It is also one of the drier months of the year, with an average of 5 rainy days in the southern region and 7 rainy days in the northern region. Around 9 hours of daily sunshine offer ample time for excursions and activities. The sea temperature remains warm for swimming year-round, averaging 27°C during the winter months. You might need to pack a lightweight jacket or shawl for cooler evenings but be sure to also bring your swimsuit, t-shirts, dresses, shorts, sunglasses, and sunscreen. (Average Max Temperature: 30°C. Average Precipitation: South – 20mm, North East – 150mm.)
• Weather Patterns in Jamaica During February: February sees little deviation in conditions compared to January – temperatures remain consistent with a typical high of 25°C and common low of 21°C. Precipitation declines marginally with one less rainy day experienced in the North. Daylight persists for approximately nine hours on average and ocean temperatures stay comfortably warm at 27°C. February serves as an ideal month for swimming, snorkeling, and water activities as water visibility peaks during the winter season. February also fosters ideal situations for enjoying other outdoor escapades like hiking and waterfalls, so remember to pack sturdy sun protection and clothing. Pack similarly to January while adding extra swimsuits to make the most of all the underwater experiences. (Common Maximum Temperature: 30°C. Regular Precipitation: South – 20mm, North East – 120mm.)
• In Jamaica during March, the weather is among the best on the island with marginally warmer temperatures and lower rainfall compared to February. The average daily high is a pleasant 26°C while the average low is comfortably 22°C. Sunshine hours remain at 9. Though rainfall frequency equals February, the north sees 45mm less monthly precipitation. With the highly warm conditions, minimal rain, and extended daylight, March constitutes one of the peak seasons for visitors particularly university students vacationing over spring break. Light clothing, a sun hat, and for evenings a sweatshirt are suitable. For mountain areas, pack a jacket and hiking boots. The UV index is elevated thus bring and generously apply ample sunscreen when exposed to direct sunlight as with February. (Average Maximum Temperature: 31°C. Average Precipitation: South Coast – 20mm, North East – 75mm.)
• Visiting Jamaica in April: The climate in April is very pleasant and can be better taken advantage of by mid-month as Spring Break travel declines, crowds decrease, and the beaches are more relaxed with fewer large gatherings. The average daily high is 26°C and the average low rises to 23°C. The sun shines for around 10 hours each day, allowing for more time to enjoy outdoor and aquatic activities especially as the ocean temperature remains very comfortable at 27°C. April is just before one of Jamaica’s wet periods begins, so expect a bit more rainfall, particularly in the Blue Mountains region. Both the north and south see around 7 days of rain on average, but northern areas see twice as much precipitation. Packing some lightweight rain gear and waterproof footwear is advisable if visiting northern coasts, as well as a sun hat, sunscreen, summer outfits, a few light layers, and swimwear. (Average High Temperature: 31°C. Average Precipitation: South – 40mm, North East – 110mm.)
• Conditions on the island of Jamaica during the month of May: May marks the beginning of Jamaica’s wetter season of the year as precipitation levels intensify across the northern and southern areas. The capital city of Kingston located in the south will typically see approximately eight rainy days whereas Ocho Rios in the north receives 65mm more rainfall spread over twelve days. It bears mentioning that Jamaica seldom experiences continuous rain for a full day. Showers generally fall for only part of the day, allowing the remainder to be dry and sunny. Be sure to carry a water-resistant bag and some lightweight protective outerwear to deal with unexpected tropical downpours. In spite of higher rain amounts, the daily sunlight hours average ten, leaving ample opportunity to enjoy the beach or join in Jamaica’s diverse outdoor activities. The mean daily temperature in May rises marginally to 27°C while the average low is 24°C, so selecting lodging with air conditioning is advised for comfort during overnight hours. Also pack sunscreen and sun protective items to avoid UV damage. Pack light summer clothing, swimwear, and lightweight rain gear to ensure preparedness for Jamaica’s May weather conditions. (Average Maximum Temperature: 32°C. Average Precipitation: South – 100mm, North East – 165mm.)
• Conditions in Jamaica during June: June marks the beginning of summer and the Jamaica`s low season with warm, humid weather. It also starts the hurricane period, but the risk of a major storm so early is small. Interestingly, rainfall amounts are lower than May. The north sees an average of 12 days of rain like May while Kingston in the south usually gets 7 days. Daily temperatures in June rise to around 28°C with lows of 24°C. Highs can reach 33°C, making accommodations with air conditioning and shaded pools important. Despite the heat and moisture, northeasterly trade winds and brief rain showers cool coastal areas in the north. Pack as for May with lightweight summer clothes and rain gear as well as plenty of strong sun protection. (Average Maximum Temperature: 33°C. Average Precipitation: South – 75mm, North East – 110mm.)
• Conditions in Jamaica During July: July is considered the hottest month of the calendar year in Jamaica with average daily temperatures reaching around 29°C, but feels even warmer due to high humidity levels. Nighttime lows usually only fall to approximately 24°C so lodging with air conditioning is essential in July, as is carrying a wide-brimmed sun hat and sunscreen with a high SPF to enjoy the 11 hours of daily sunshine. Taking a dip in the sea provides relief from the heat – be prepared for water temperatures averaging 28°C. Rainy days increase to 13 days in the north and decrease to 6 days in the south, while the typical rainfall decreases for this month. Pack lightweight summer attire, swimwear, and moisture-wicking clothing to stay cool and dry. Carrying some lightweight rain gear or a waterproof bag to protect valuables is also a good idea due to a few unexpected tropical showers. (Average Maximum Temperature: 33°C. Average Precipitation: South – 40mm, North East – 80mm.)
• August Weather in Jamaica: Temperatures rarely change much in August, with the daily average hovering around 29°C and lows of 24°C, but rainfall chances do increase as the height of the hurricane season approaches. Those on the south coast can expect around 9 days with precipitation on average whereas the northern coastline may see upwards of 13 damp days, though both coastlines receive equal amounts of rainfall. Daylight hours decrease to 10 but UV levels are high, so it is prudent to pack good sun protection and bring a water bottle each day to stay hydrated and shield skin from sun damage. The sea maintains a warm temperature of 29°C, rendering it perfect for water sports and beach days. Pack similar to July and try booking accommodations with air conditioning to remain cool and cozy. (Average Maximum Temperature: 33°C. Average Precipitation: South Coast – 100mm, North East Coast – 100mm.)

If you have more free time, we have recommendations above about how to dedicate it. However, you could also choose a neighborhood and spend a day wandering store to cafe to wine bar.

• Weather Conditions in Jamaica During October: Some claim that October can potentially be the worst time to visit Jamaica as it is the rainiest month of the year. However, it is also the most affordable time to visit the island. Rain is anticipated for half the days of the month in both northern and southern regions, ranging from brief downpours lasting a few minutes to continuous rainfall in the evening hours lasting a few hours. With average daily temperatures of 27°C, evening lows of 23°C, and 8 hours of sunshine, outdoor activities and beach days are still possible in October, though not guaranteed. Hence, being prepared for variable weather will be key to having an enjoyable holiday. Packing as you would for September and planning indoor pursuits like visiting the Bob Marley Museum along with bringing books, games, and other indoor entertainment for additional rainy days would be advisable. (Average Max Temperature: 32°C. Average Precipitation: South – 175mm, North East – 190mm.)
• Weather Conditions in Jamaica During November: November marks the transition between the last month of the hurricane season and the end of the rainy season in Jamaica. Rains tend to decrease in the second half of the month, with both the northern and southern coasts experiencing approximately 10 days of rain on average. However, the northern areas receive almost 185mm more total precipitation than the south. Sunny hours remain at around 8 per day and temperatures moderate to a pleasant average high of 26°C. This makes November an agreeable time to enjoy outdoor activities and beaches across the island. Have light summer clothing, swimsuits, sun protection, and lightweight layers available for evenings when lows average 23°C. (Average Maximum Temperature: 30°C. Average Monthly Rainfall: South Coast – 65mm, North East Coast – 250mm.)
• Weather in Jamaica during December: While December falls outside the hurricane season, bringing some of the nicest temperatures and conditions of the year to Jamaica despite higher rainfall in northern areas. The average daily high temperature hovers around 26°C while the average low sits at a comfortable 22°C. With 10 hours of daily sunshine and only 6 days of expected precipitation in southern locales along with 8 days in the north, December serves as an excellent month to enjoy Jamaican beaches, outdoor adventures, and watersports. Be sure to pack a variety of warm weather clothing, swimwear, some light rain gear like a jacket and waterproof footwear, as well as sun protection. Steady trade winds help keep northern coasts cooler, particularly in evenings and at night, so bringing additional warm layers is also advisable. (Average Max Temperature: 31°C. Average Precipitation: South – 45mm, North East – 205mm.)

Jamaica Holidays, Events, and Festivals

Jamaica in January

• First Day of the Year (January 1st) – The first calendar day of the year is a public occasion in Jamaica where work and recreation stop. Followers of the Rastafarian religion celebrate the new year on September 11th as that date lines up with the Ethiopian calendar and they accept Ethiopia as their spiritual homeland. Public transport has limited schedules and numerous companies remain closed, although some shops and attractions in major cities like Kingston, Montego Bay, and Negril are accessible.
• Rebel Salute (mid-January) – This annual two-day musical event, held around January 15, is one of the largest music shows in Jamaica with a solid reggae theme. The festival dates back to 1994 and is situated at the Grizzlys Plantation Cove near Priory, St. Ann. It is important to note the festival prohibits the selling and consumption of alcohol and meat; only fish products are allowed.

Jamaica in February

• Bob Marley Week (early February) – The renowned Jamaican reggae singer Bob Marley, born on February 6th, is honored for about a week in early February as the timeframe coincides with his birthday. Planned events pay tribute through music shows, karaoke contests, exhibits, and lectures. Locations associated with him like the Bob Marley Museum and Bob Marley Mausoleum in Ocho Rios hold special commemorations, and Kingston where his former residence is situated also sees festivities. Montego Bay annually hosts a concert on his actual birthday day celebrating Bob Marley.
• Ash Wednesday (mid-February) – The main date within Lent for Christians globally is recognized as Ash Wednesday. It is the beginning of the Lenten period of self-restraint, which endures for 40 sunrises and sunsets. Ash Wednesday is a public vacation and schools and some companies close their doors, although most shops and attractions in primary cities like Kingston, Montego Bay, and Negril usually stay open.

Jamaica in March

• Spring Break (End of February to Mid-April) – Families with children and college students gather in southern areas to celebrate Spring Break. Negril and Montego Bay are the primary destinations seeing the largest crowds, with the wildest student parties found in Negril. Dates vary depending on individual school schedules, but most people in Jamaica for Spring Break arrive in March. Spring Break further includes Jamaica Beachfest in Negril providing live music and alcohol.

Jamaica in April

• Easter Weekend (Good Friday to Easter Monday) – While attending religious services is important for many Jamaicans over the Easter period, most residents opt to spend time at public beaches, so expect beaches to be particularly crowded around Easter season. Meat is not eaten on Good Friday but worthwhile cultural foods to sample include the Jamaican Easter bun and cheese as well as the island`s favorite Easter dish, ‘escovitch’ fish. Escovitch is a Jamaican version of ceviche. Being a public holiday, public transportation has limited schedules and many companies close, although most shops and attractions in major cities like Kingston and Negril remain open. Though several Caribbean nations prohibit alcohol sales over Easter, Jamaica has lifted this ban.
• The Trelawny Yam Festival – Each Easter Monday, a yam-balancing competition as well as best-dressed goat and donkey contests take place alongside the crowning of a Yam King and Queen. This tradition began in 1997 with the goal of supporting the local community. Organized by the Southern Trelawny Environmental Agency, the event celebrates yams, an important food source for residents of the small mountain village South Trelawny in Jamaica.
• Carnival (mid-April) – Unlike other nations with Carnival season, known as Bacchanal, Jamaica holds its Carnival after Lent instead of before. It is the biggest event of the year and occurs all around the country. Carnival kicks off at the start of February, with the main celebrations concluding the festival in mid-April. Comparable in style to the renowned Carnival in Trinidad, Carnival in Jamaica showcases Jamaican culture with street parades, a grand costume parade through the roads of Kingston, soca, Ragai, calypso music, and dancing. Events attract over 100,000 guests, locals, and tourists who come to witness the massive adult parade in Beach J’ouvert, the Road March, and other main activities that are held in Kingston, Negril, and Montego Bay.

Jamaica in May

• Labour Day (May 23) – A public holiday celebrated to honor the hard work of those employed in public services. On this day, individuals, groups, clubs, and other organizations are encouraged to volunteer their time carrying out activities that improve the environment or advance principles of community development through cooperation. Public transit has limited schedules and many businesses remain closed, however the main attractions and most shops in cities like Kingston and Negril generally stay open.

Jamaica in June

• Ocho Rios Jazz Festival (mid-June) – The biggest jazz event throughout the year happens in Ocho Rios over 8 times in mid-June. The festival highlights shows by international and Caribbean jazz musicians as well as household and community events.

Jamaica in July

• International Reggae Day (July 1) – Artists from all over the globe travel to Kingston to celebrate reggae music.
• Reggae Sumfest (mid-July) – Held over 3 days in Montego Bay, Jamaica`s largest concert showcases the top reggae and dancehall music talents.
• Black River Day (late July) – Held in Black River, the capital of the parish of St. Elizabeth, on Jamaica’s south coast. This celebration is known as Jamaica’s ‘ultimate street festival’, and is a full day of activities, cuisine, fashion shows, contests, and music starting at 9 am and continuing till 2 am of the next day.

Jamaica in August

• Emancipation Day (August 1) – A national public holiday commemorating when the British signed the Emancipation Declaration in 1838 to abolish slavery in its colonies. Many travel to Spanish Town to celebrate as that is where the document was signed. It is a joyous day with people wearing colourful attire, dancing, and waving the Jamaican flag across the country. There is also a Jubilee held on the grounds of Seville Great House from July 31 to August 1 featuring dancing and traditional folk music like Kumina and Mento. Being a public holiday, public transportation will have restricted schedules while most businesses will be closed, though major city shops and attractions in areas including Kingston, Montego Bay, and Negril will remain open.

Some young ones may not be intrigued by the palace and the specifics of the royal family’s lives, but regardless, the grounds and gardens make a good outdoor spot to roam with the kids and let them run about while you enjoy the stunning views of the palace. The palace is open only 2 days a year, January 2 and December 23. It’s a 10 minute walk from Tokyo Station. The gardens are closed most Mondays and Fridays with many exceptions: calendar of opening dates.

• August 6th Independence Commemoration – A public holiday in Jamaica celebrates freedom from British rule in 1962. Every church holds a flag ceremony in the morning. Towns and resorts host parades, events, and parties to mark the occasion. This date also announces those to be honored on National Heroes` Day. A large gala is hosted yearly at the National Stadium, showcasing Jamaica`s rich culture through song, dance, and colorful traditional costumes. Public transport availability will be limited and many businesses closed, though primary city locations like Kingston, Montego Bay, and Negril generally remain open.
• Dream Weekend (early August) – Held over 5 days in August, coinciding with Jamaica’s Independence Day, this music festival attracts some of Jamaica’s biggest musical talents.

Jamaica in September

• Accompong Maroon Festival (September 6) – A festival in Accompong Town commemorating the Maroon victory over British colonists in 1731. Maroons are descendants of escaped African slaves who hid in Jamaica`s mountains. The festival experiences their traditional foods, music and sacred ritual performances.

Jamaica in October

• National Heroes` Day (mid-October) – Every third Monday in October is recognized as National Heroes` Day in Jamaica. It`s a public and patriotic observance honoring the 7 individuals acknowledged by the government as national heroes. Modern-day heroes are also commemorated and presented with awards on this day. There are numerous festive events, including musical performances, dancing, cricket and soccer matches, arts and crafts exhibits, agricultural shows, and more. Public transportation is limited and many businesses remain closed, although most shops and attractions in the main cities like Kingston and Negril are open.
• Jamaica Food and Drink Festival (late October to early November) – A 9-day culinary festival featuring themed occasions to showcase a variety of cuisines found in Jamaica.

Jamaica in November

• Restaurant Week (late November) – Across 1 week, 104 restaurants across the island release new menu items and offer signature dishes and pre-selected 3-course meals for a special discounted rate.

Jamaica in December

• Rastafari Rootzfest (December 11-13) – This three-day festival held in Negril honors the Rastafarian lifestyle through music, art, traditional cuisine, ganja cultivation education, and religious beliefs. The festival originated as a movement to legally recognize the sacred and religious use of ganja by Rastafarians in Jamaica. In 2015, the country amended laws to legally protect these rights. Events include an exhibitor`s market, cultivation seminars, and reggae concerts.
• Yuletide Eves (December Twenty-fourth) – Christmas holds significant importance in Jamaica and festivities endure throughout the full month of December. Urban and rural areas are decorated cheerfully with evergreens and brightly-hued lights known locally as ‘pepper lights’; even taxi vehicles are adorned. Christmas Eves involve singing, dancing and represent one of the greatest occasions of the year for children. Every community has vendors supplying foodstuffs and playthings – this is termed the “Gran’ Market” – which combines attributes of a pageant and a marketplace. The finest Gran’ Market in Jamaica exists in Linstead, St Catherine. Celebrations at the Gran’ Market carry on well into the morning hours, with some attending Midnight Mass. Presents are then shared over an evening meal on Christmas Day.
• ‘John Canoe’/Jonkonnu (December 24) – One of the highlights of Christmas Eve in more rural areas where people dress in costume and wear masks while dancing through the streets to music. This tradition was brought to Jamaica by enslaved peoples from Africa.
• Christmas Day (December 25) – Jamaica has more churches per square mile than any other country worldwide and so Christmas is one of the most important religious and cultural celebrations here. Christmas mass in Jamaica is a joyous event with steel drums and reggae versions of well-known Christmas songs, definitely worth leaving the resort to attend and experience.
• Boxing Day (December 26) – A public holiday in Jamaica that commemorates the British tradition of servants receiving a “Christmas Box” and day off to spend with family. On this day, Jamaicans also remember those providing community service throughout the year. Boxing Day marks the beginning of theater season, especially the pantomime performances. An annual Christmas show called `The Upsies and de Downzies` is presented by the Little Theatre Movement, Jamaica`s longest-running theater company. Dancehall fans also look forward to the famous `Sting` concert on Boxing Day.
• The last day of the year (December 31) – Also known as ‘Watch Night’ since many stay awake late to welcome the start of the New Year. Attending church in Jamaica is viewed by numerous as a good method to initiate the year – a party or ‘session’ is the next stop for many after leaving the place of worship. The Urban Development Corporation organizes a massive fireworks display at the harbor in Kingston with approximately 250,000 people assembling to observe. The premier spot to view the spectacular fireworks exhibition in Kingston is Ocean Boulevard. The harbor also has a kids’ play area, craft village, and a stage performance.