Billed as the most important celebratory event on the Jamaican ‘Emancipendence’ calendar, The National Independence Float Parade and Grand Gala is a spectacular affair representing the achievements of Jamaicans from all over the world.  Colourful celebrations include a parade of decorated floats, costumed groups, music trucks and marching bands to really add to the celebratory atmosphere! For more information visit www.jcdc.org.jm

Absolute Temptation Isle, Negril

July 31st-August 3rd

Known for hosting blockbuster weekend parties, Absolute Entertainment will stage another series of 11 hot parties across the resort of Negril.  Some of the exciting participating party venues this year include Waves Negril, Risky Business, Tamboo, Hedonism II and Margaritaville.

 

Miss Jamaica World Beauty Pageant, Kingston

August

This coronation pageant held in Kingston will decide who will represent Jamaica in the Miss World contest.  Jamaica has enjoyed a high profile in past competitions and the island looks forward to the opportunity of clinching the prestigious Miss World title for 2009.  For more information visit www.missjamaicaworld.com

 

Michael Holding Masters Cricket Tournament, Kingston and Trelawny

October 25th

Hosted by just two Caribbean islands – Barbados and Jamaica, 2009 sees the fifth year of the Michael Holding’s Masters Tournament held this year in Kingston, St Ann and Trelawny in Jamaica.  This popular seniors cricket tournament for players aged 45 and over attracts teams from the USA, UK, Canada, Antigua and Barbados as cricketers are invited to play. Visit www.sportingjourneys.com

 

WATA Rose Hall Triathlon and Wellness Festival, Montego Bay

October 30-31st

Organised for the second year running, this challenging and popular triathlon and wellness festival attracts participants from all over the world to compete in the swimming, biking and running races.  Taking place at the Rose Hall October 30-31st, the event includes a presentation on wellness as well as a number of beach parties and performances from local and international artists such as Tarrus Riley and Denise Perkins Visit www.rosehalltriathlon.com

 

Oktoberfest, Kingston

During October

In celebration of the famous German beer festival of Oktoberfest, Jamaica has been hosting its own event for 31 years!  German speciality foods, a range of different German beers, wines and schnapps will be on offer together with some fun surprises, games and prizes!  Contact Holger Waehling (Tel: 876 848 8102)

 

Kingston Restaurant Week, Kingston

November 9th-16th

The Kingston Restaurant Week encourages both locals and visitors to Kingston to dine out for less and sample the diverse range of culinary delights available in the city – all at considerably lower prices and sometimes as much as 50% less.  Contact Stephanie Scott (tel: 876 978 6245)

 

Reggae Marathon, Negril

December 5th

Jamaica’s Reggae Marathon and Half Marathon is the island’s premier international marathon event attracting a wide range of runners from regular marathon runners to complete beginners from around the world.  Starting from the Long Bay Beach Park in Negril, runners can enjoy the vibe and lively atmosphere with lots of reggae music to help them along the route.