Savor Jamaica: Top Food & Drink Festivals to Attend in 2026
Jamaica isn’t just a tropical paradise of sun, sand, and reggae; it’s also an oasis for food lovers. Jamaican food is world-renowned for its tantalizing appeal and distinct flavours that leave a lasting impression on the taste buds and an earnest yearning for more. From spicy jerk chicken to world-famous Blue Mountain coffee, the island’s culinary scene is vibrant, diverse, and full of flavour.
Jamaica is full of community markets, pop-up culinary events, and local food festivals throughout the year. Jamaica’s culinary scene is truly an experience; eye-catching, expressive, and deeply rooted in culture. In 2026, the island’s food festivals offer travelers a refined yet authentic way to explore its flavours. From elevated chef tastings in Kingston to time-honoured jerk traditions in Montego Bay, there’s so much to flavour to savour. So if you’re planning a trip to Jamaica in 2026 or just want to immerse yourself in Jamaica’s food culture, here’s your guide to the must-attend food and drink festivals.
1. Kingston Curry Festival – Kingston
If you love bold flavours and spices, then the Kingston Curry Festival is absolutely perfect for you! Curry has been a staple in Jamaican kitchens for generations. Successfully blending influences from Indian and West African traditions into the island’s rich spice-forward cuisine. And the Kingston Curry festival highlights that heritage in a fun, flavorful way.
This one-day culinary event celebrates everything curry; from traditional Jamaican favourites to creative international interpretations. Patrons are able to sample a variety of scrumptious curry dishes. Trying everything from curry goat, chicken, and shrimp to adventurous options like curried lobster, crab and even mango-based creations. All while enjoying the sweet serenade of music, cultural activities, and the lively atmosphere of the city.
When: March 1, 2026
Where: Devon House, Kingston
2. Blue Mountain Coffee Festival – Kingston
Coffee lovers rejoice! If you love coffee and a good vibe, then the Blue Mountain Coffee Festival deserves a permanent spot on your travel bucket list. Held annually, this aromatic festival is a full-on celebration of one of the world’s most prized coffees; served with a side of music, culture, and unforgettable island energy. Enjoy tastings, brew demonstrations, and barista competitions, and pair your cup with local dishes for a true culinary experience.
Jamaica Blue Mountain Coffee is famous for its smooth, mild flavor with no bitterness. Grown at high elevations with misty mornings and rich soil, these beans are carefully cultivated, handpicked, and highly regulated. And the coffee festival is one of the best places to taste the real deal straight from local farmers and producers. This isn’t just about sipping coffee (though you’ll do plenty of that). Beyond classic brews, expect creative twists on cold brews, lattes, coffee cocktails, and desserts infused with Blue Mountain coffee. The festival blends food, culture, and entertainment into one vibrant experience. It’s the perfect excuse to slow down, sip something incredible, and soak in the moment.
Coffee lovers will find this event a caffeine dream come true!
When: March 7, 2026
Where: Hope Gardens, Kingston
3. Jamaica Food & Drink Festival – Kingston
If you’re a foodie or even just someone who appreciates a great cocktail, then the Jamaica Food & Drink Festival should be at the top of your island adventures. This is Jamaica’s flagship culinary celebration, bringing together the island’s top chefs, artisanal drink makers, culinary innovators and food enthusiasts for a multi-day extravaganza. The festival is a full-on celebration of Jamaica’s vibrant flavors and top-notch drinks. You’ll find everything from traditional dishes to inventive fusion plates that pair perfectly with Jamaica’s rum, craft cocktails, and local brews. Think of it as a weekend where your taste buds get the VIP treatment.
Expect food tasting tours, chef demonstrations, live music, and a showcase of Jamaica’s vibrant street food scene. Whether you’re sampling jerk chicken, sipping a rum punch, or trying a gourmet twist on classic favourites, every bite is a taste of Jamaica’s rich culinary heritage and the festival is a feast for all senses. If Jamaica is a paradise for your taste buds, then the Jamaica Food & Drink Festival is the ultimate showcase. You’ll leave with a happy belly, new favorite dishes, and maybe even a few secret recipes tucked in your memory. Plus, it’s the perfect way to experience Kingston in all its lively, flavorful glory. Food, drinks, music, and vibes? What more could you ask for?
When: March 5–8, 2026
Where: Kingston
Related: Exciting Rum Tours in Jamaica
4. Montego Bay Jerk & Food Festival – Montego Bay
No trip to Jamaica is complete without tasting jerk chicken, pork or fish. Jerk is an art form, and the Montego Bay Jerk Festival is its gallery.
From perfectly charred jerk chicken to tender pork infused with pimento smoke, every stall offers a different interpretation of a classic Jamaican technique. Scotch bonnet heat builds slowly, balanced by sweet undertones and deep, smoky flavor. Watching the pitmasters work is such a thrilling part of the experience. This is cooking guided by instinct, not recipes.
If you care about food with history, intention, and soul, Mobay Jerk Festival delivers on every level.
This day-long festival is a celebration of Jamaica’s signature jerk cuisine, complete with live music, family-friendly activities, and plenty of opportunities to savor the smoky, spicy flavours of the island.
When: August 1, 2026
Where: Catherine Hall, Montego Bay
5. Ocho Rios Seafood Festival – Ocho Rios
Seafood lovers rejoice! Fresh lobster, fish, and other island delicacies take center stage at this festival, complemented by music, local crafts, and cultural experiences.
The Ochi Rios Seafood Festival unfolds the way the coast does—slow, intentional, and deeply aware of its own rhythm. This isn’t a festival that competes for your attention. It invites it.
Here, the food doesn’t need embellishment. Fish freshly caught and simply prepared. Lobster grilled until just tender, still carrying the sweetness of the water. Shrimp seasoned with restraint, allowing the ocean to speak first. Escovitch that balances acid and heat without overpowering either. It’s truly a delectable experience.
Keep an eye out for official dates and schedules to plan your visit.
When: August 2026 (exact dates TBD)
Where: Turtle River Park, Ocho Rios
Tips for Festival-Goers and First-Time Visitors
Check dates early. Some festivals span multiple days or nights across different venues, so planning ahead ensures you catch your favorites.
Book tickets in advance. Popular events like the Jamaica Food & Drink Festival can sell out.
Arrive early to beat the crowds and get first dibs on tastings.
Plan your schedule. Demo classes and tastings fill up fast.
Dress comfortably-think breathable outfits and comfy shoes. There’s likely to be some amount of walking and standing involved.
Bring cash. Not all vendors have card machines.
Bring friends. More mouths, more tastings, more fun!
Capture the moments. Colourful dishes and tropical drinks make for the perfect Instagram-worthy photos.
If you’re flying in, stay nearby to venues if possible so you can fully enjoy the day without rushing.
Explore local markets: Even if you miss a big festival, Jamaica’s local food markets offer incredible flavors and experiences year-round.
Wrap Up
All in all, Jamaica’s culinary scene is as lively and colorful as our beaches and music. Food festivals are where flavor, culture, and community come together in one beautiful setting. Whether you’re sipping Blue Mountain coffee in Kingston, indulging in jerk chicken in Montego Bay, or enjoying fresh seafood in Ocho Rios, 2026 promises a delicious journey across the island. So pack your appetite; it’s going to be a flavorful year!