Reggae SumFest, Montego Bay Festivals

Jennifer Hudson and local fan signing at Reggae SumFest, Montego Bay; credit Jamaica Tourism Board

Montego Bay Festivals

Reggae SumFest started without much fanfare in 1993. It quickly became the largest music festival in the Caribbean, taking place each year in mid-July in Montego Bay. It attracts crowds from all over the world. It has featured Jamaican reggae artists Stephen Marley, Ziggy Marley, Bunny Wailer, The Mighty Diamonds, Toots & the Maytals, Derrick Harriott, Christopher Martin, Romain Virgo, Proteje, Chronic, Leroy Sibbles, Maxi Priest, Leroy Smart, and many others. Dancehall stars like Barrington Levy, Popcaan, Spice and Beenie Man.

Reggae Sumfest has added value to “Brand Jamaica” by promoting three of the country’s most valuable products –- music, culture, and the island itself as a global tourist destination. This has been expanded globally by live streaming and broadcast video content and by attracting top selling international artists. Those artists have included Usher, Jennifer Hudson, 50 Cent, Rihanna, TI, Kanye West, Jordin Sparks, Chris Brown, Nicki Minaj, Wiz Khalifa and many more.

Reggae Sumfest kicks off on Sunday with the Beach Party held at Tropical Bliss Beach, followed on Monday with a free Street Dance held at Old Hospital Park on The Hip Strip. On Tuesday, the All White Party is held on Pier 1. On Wednesday, the Blitz Party kicks off the Global Sound Clash at Pier 1 Event Centre. On Thursday and Friday, two nights of live Dancehall and Reggae Artist performances at the Main Festival and Catherine Hall Entertainment Complex.

Visitors are known to come for all or parts of the SumFest. The party is always and you still get to enjoy the beaches, eco-travel and other attractions in between performances.

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