Jamaica’s six resort areas will be abuzz with activity in 2012 as the country celebrates its 50th anniversary of Independence. The list of “Jamaica 50” branded events span cultural festivities, culinary and sporting events galore, all in celebration of this special milestone. Here’s what you can take part in for the months of January and February.
Rebel Salute
January 14, 2012. Port Kaiser Sports Complex, St. Elizabeth
Standing tall as a pioneering roots festival, the organizers of Rebel Salute have managed to build and maintain a product that aims to promote and preserve the healthier aspect of reggae music. As a result, this event has captured the adoration of roots reggae lovers worldwide; magnetically pulling thousands of people to areas of Jamaica’s South Coast not traditionally famous for live music festivals. It serves a strict vegetarian menu complimented by a diet of cultural roots Reggae from Jamaica’s finest performers.
This annual festival is in its 19th year and usually features several internationally acclaimed reggae artistes. In the past, the festival has included performances from Luciano, Toots, Queen Ifrica, Tarrus Riley, I-Octane, Etana and Tony Rebel. If you are a true reggae fan then this event cannot be missed…. save the date! This year’s line up includes Stephen Marley, Tony Rebel, Tarrus Riley and Maxi Priest.
Archbishop’s Visit
January 21-31, 2012
2012 marks a special time in the life of Jamaica with the 50th year of Independence. To help launch the start of the celebrations, The Archbishop of York, Dr. John Sentamu will visit Jamaica as one of the official Jamaica 50 events taking place throughout the year. He will participate in three services:
Ecumenical Service in Montego Bay
Special service at the Cathedral in Spanish Town
National Jamaica 50 Ecumenical Service at Emancipation Park in Kingston
Jamaica invites all faiths and nationalities to accompany the Archbishop on his landmark trip to Jamaica, to follow him in worship, and experience the very best that the destination has to offer. Please refer to our website for flights and packages.
Jamaica Jazz and Blues Festival
January 26-28. Greenfield Stadium, Trelawny
The Art of Music Productions (formerly Turnkey Productions) will present the premiere music event, Jamaica Jazz and Blues Festival, at the Trelawny Multi Purpose Stadium on January 26-28, 2012. This annual event is known for offering a thrilling line-up of international and well-known Jamaican artistes showcasing several genres of music, such as Country, Jazz, Rhythm & Blues Alternative, Rock and Reggae. With such a stellar line-up including multi-platinum, five-time Grammy award-winning singer Celine Dion, Cee Lo Green, Temptations, Nicole Henry, Jully Black, Shaggy, Luciano, Half Pint, Yellowman, Richie Stephens and Gentleman… you really wouldn’t want to be anywhere else.
Past artistes have included Diana Ross, Billy Ocean, Michael Bolton, Kenny Rogers, Chicago, Lionel Richie, Chakka Khan, Randy Crawford, the O’Jays, Atlantic Starr, Nikki Yanofsky, Air Supply, Natalie Cole, Maroon 5, among several others! The Jamaica Jazz & Blues Festival will also have special activities to mark Jamaica’s Golden milestone. Join us in the celebrations… you don’t want to miss it! Call your nearest travel agent today to make your booking.
Caribbean Yoga Conference
February 2-5, 2012. Hilton Rose Hall Hotel, Montego Bay
In February 2012 Jamaica will see a cadre of yoga practitioners coming to the island for the inaugural Caribbean Yoga Conference (CYC). Designed to be a celebration of the yoga consciousness emerging in the region, the event will last for four days starting on February 2, 2012 and will be hosted at the Hilton Rose Hall in Montego Bay. The CYC schedule will bring together persons who are inspired by the practice of yoga, interested in health and wellness of mind and spirit, and curious to learn from renown teachers all in a balmy, tranquil space. This is a warm celebration of sun, sadhana, sand, seva and sangha. Come and be renewed!
