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If you read my earlier article featuring 8 Jamaican music festivals to check out, you already know that Jamaica’s music scene extends far beyond the big-name events that dominate the international spotlight. Since writing that article, I’ve discovered even more festivals that deserve a spot on the calendar — from intimate beachside reggae gatherings to food-and-music weekends on the South Coast. As such, check out this sequel: three more Jamaican music festivals to add to your travel itinerary, whether you’re a local looking for a new experience or a visitor hoping to experience Jamaica through music, food and culture.
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1. Lost In Time Festival – Kingston
Lost In Time, or LIT Fest, is one of the Jamaican festivals that had been on my radar for a while, but attending the 2026 staging at Hope Gardens in Kingston really showed me why it has developed such a following. The 2026 festival was its third staging and, for the first time, expanded to two days: February 28 and March 1. Protoje headlined the first night, while Chronixx headlined the second, alongside performances from artists including Lila Iké, Tanya Stephens, Tessanne Chin, Jah9, Jesse Royal, Naomi Cowan, D’Yani and Royal Blu.
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But for me, Chronixx was the moment. After stepping away from the spotlight for several years in self-imposed Exile, seeing him back on a Jamaican stage felt like a full-circle moment. The last time he performed in Jamaica was at Buju Banton’s Long Walk to Freedom concert in 2019. The anticipation was palpable, and when he finally appeared, the crowd absolutely erupted. He performed for more than an hour, moving through favourites including Family First, Majesty and Skanking Sweet. At one point, a microphone issue resulted in the audience singing along to his songs, turning what could have been an awkward technical moment into an unexpectedly memorable part of the show.
It wasn’t just the headliners who made LIT Fest enjoyable. One of my favourite things about the festival was being able to experience a wide range of Jamaican talent throughout the day. There was something satisfying about arriving early, discovering artistes I hadn’t seen live before, admiring the beautiful gigantic stage and gradually watching the festival atmosphere build. The food was another highlight. LIT Fest incorporated a food village with local vendors, alongside pop-up restaurant experiences. There’s also something about the festival’s setting at Hope Gardens that works particularly well. Instead of feeling like you’re simply standing in a huge concert venue, you get greenery, open space, blankets on the lawn and people settling into the evening with friends. LIT Fest deserves a permanent space on the island’s annual Reggae Month calendar and should definitely be on your radar.
- When: The 2026 staging took place February 28–March 1
- Where: Hope Gardens, Kingston
- Good for: Reggae fans, foodies and visitors wanting a modern Jamaican music experience.
2. Wickie Wackie Music Festival – Bull Bay
If your idea of a perfect Jamaican music festival involves reggae, the beach, a salty breeze and good vibes, Wickie Wackie Music Festival should be on your list. I attended the 2024 staging and had such a good time that it remains one of the more memorable festival experiences I’ve had in Jamaica. Held at the Wickie Wackie Beach in 8 Miles, Bull Bay, the festival has a completely different atmosphere from a city concert. You’re right by the sea with the sound of waves mixing with live reggae and the evening breeze coming off the water. Thankfully, I had worn my hair out in an afro that night because the salty sea breeze was doing exactly what it wanted, and it felt so good!
The music was a major draw. I got to see Kumar Fyah, Romain Virgo and Cat Coore live, among other performers. Seeing these artists perform in a relaxed beachfront setting made the experience feel intimate in a way that large concerts sometimes don’t. Since then, the Wickie Wackie Music Festival has evolved into a three-day event with camping, food, craft vendors and a large bonfire adding to the atmosphere. One thing I particularly like about Wickie Wackie is its sense of community. It doesn’t feel like you simply show up, watch a performer and leave. There’s time to hang out, eat, talk, enjoy the beach and soak up the surroundings. The festival’s organizers have already announced its return for Reggae Month 2027, so February is a good month to keep in mind if you’re planning a Jamaica trip around music.
- When: February 2027
- Where: Wickie Wackie Beach, 8 Mile, Bull Bay
- Good for: Reggae fans, beach lovers, campers and anyone looking for a more laid-back Jamaican festival experience.
3. Treasure Beach Food, Rum & Reggae Festival – St Elizabeth
What happens when you combine Jamaican food, rum, reggae and one of the island’s most laid-back communities? You get the Treasure Beach Food, Rum & Reggae Festival. The festival returns to Treasure Beach on Jamaica’s South Coast from November 6–8, 2026, and the upcoming staging is expanding to a three-day format. Friday kicks things off with Dubwise, celebrating reggae, dub and Jamaica’s sound-system culture. Saturday is the main festival day, with an artisan village, farmers market, Jamaican food vendors and live music. The weekend wraps up Sunday with the 7/11 Beach Party. There’s plenty of rum involved, but still sign up to take a full Jamaican rum distillery tour if you can.
Treasure BeachThe 2026 musical lineup includes Protoje and Lila Iké, who will headline the main stage on Saturday night. What makes this festival particularly appealing for travelers is that the festival itself is only part of the experience. Treasure Beach is known for its boutique accommodations, restaurants, beaches and relaxed South Coast atmosphere, making it easy to turn the festival into a full weekend getaway. The festival also puts a spotlight on local farmers, producers, chefs, artisans and entrepreneurs, connecting Jamaica’s culinary culture with its music and tourism industries. This year’s return is particularly meaningful after Hurricane Melissa disrupted the 2025 festival.
- When: November 6–8, 2026
- Where: Treasure Beach, St Elizabeth
- Good for: Foodies, rum connoisseurs, reggae fans, couples, weekenders and anyone wanting to explore Jamaica’s South Coast.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Where can I experience live reggae music in Jamaica? Kingston is the best city to experience weekly live music. Check out these four weekly live music venues in Kingston, Jamaica.
- What month has the most music festivals in Jamaica? February is the busiest month for reggae-focused events, thanks to Jamaica’s official Reggae Month celebrations. February has been designated Reggae Month since 2008, coinciding with the birthdays of reggae legends Dennis Brown and Bob Marley. The month-long programme includes concerts, tributes, industry events, educational activities and performances around the island. In 2026, more than 60 events were registered with the Reggae Month Secretariat, including the Bob Marley Tribute Concert, Wickie Wackie Music Festival, Dancehall Week and the Reggae Gold Awards. That being said, July is another important month for Jamaican music, particularly because of Reggae Sumfest in Montego Bay.
- What should I know before attending a music festival in Jamaica? Come prepared for Jamaican heat, outdoor conditions and a late night. Wear comfortable clothing and shoes, and bring sunscreen, a hat and maybe a light rain jacket or poncho. Check the festival’s official website or social media for updated lineups, times, ticket information and entry requirements. Plan your transportation in advance, especially if you’re staying outside the festival area. And most importantly, come hungry! Jamaican festivals are as much about the food, drinks and atmosphere as they are about the music.
- What are the best music festivals in Jamaica for tourists? Reggae Sumfest in Montego Bay is one of the island’s major annual music events, while Lost In Time Festival in Kingston offers a contemporary Jamaican music experience. Wickie Wackie Music Festival combines live reggae with a beachfront setting in Bull Bay, while the Treasure Beach Food, Rum & Reggae Festival combines music with Jamaican food and the relaxed atmosphere of the South Coast. For travelers, the right festival can also depend on what else you want to experience during your trip. Kingston makes it easy to combine a festival with museums, Jamaican music history, restaurants and nightlife, while a Treasure Beach festival can become part of a slower South Coast getaway.
Wrap Up
Jamaica’s music festival scene keeps evolving. One of the things I love about travelling around Jamaica is discovering that there is always another experience to add to the list. So, if you’ve already made your way through my original list of eight Jamaican music festivals, consider this your update. Have you ever been to a reggae music festival in Jamaica or across the globe, and if not, would you visit? Sound off in the comments section below! ‘Til next time.
If you enjoyed this post, you may also like:
- Jamaican Food Festivals to Check Out
- Touring the Bob Marley Museum in Kingston
- Walk in Bob Marley’s Footsteps in Kingston, Jamaica
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