Happy Start to 2026!
2025 was a year with nuff challenges but it was also a year of wonderful beauty and lovely connections.
That girl Melissa was a real expletive deleted but… Man! Jamaicans are magnificent; the people who have shown up for us have been magnificent. Everyone has a story to tell of someone who showed extraordinary kindness, and at Jamaica Cultural Tours we were reminded of how very special Jamaicans are. The sight of Jamaicans helping Jamaicans has been beautiful to witness.
We have loved serving every single client this year. We’ve had clients from Asia, Europe, Latin America, the Caribbean, North America. You have all been special to us.
The Melissa chapter is far from over, the effects will be felt for years to come. For 2026 our wish is for Jamaica to continue the work of recovery and become more prepared and more climate smart. For you our clients we wish safe and responsible travel, exhilarating explorations, and the recognition that comes from seeing yourself in every new person you meet.
One love,
Jamaica Cultural Tours
Exploring Jamaican Markets
According to the Statistical Institute of Jamaica (STATIN), the agricultural sector contributes 7.1% to the Jamaican economy. Much of the local distribution of farmed products is done through local markets where farmers and middle men offer their wares to householders and businesses. These markets are therefore by extension a vital part of the economy, and millions of dollars flow through them weekly. Markets have thus historically been significant, offering a means of income to large segments of the population, and culturally important as they are literal meeting grounds for many people. As a modern-day place of interest, markets can therefore be an intriguing location to feel a bit of the pulse of Jamaican society.
Jamaican society is obviously very hierarchical, even to the casual observer, and this continues as a holdover from slavery and colonialism. During the period of enslavement when sugar plantations dominated – early 16th century to mid 19th century – large plantations would often have markets attached, a prime example being the Papine Market in St. Andrew linked to the Papine Estate. The enslaved would have their own plots of land on which they would grow produce. Some they would keep for themselves, but surpluses they were allowed to sell in markets.
These days, a visit to the market will still show people working hard to make a living. Vendors selling in markets use the income to feed their families and send their children to school. Market day can be a very crowded affair with browsing and bargaining. Householders and businesses looking to get the best prices go to markets and, depending on the location, you can find a mix of Jamaicans there. Depending on the size of the market you can find a range of items from yams, pineapples, and coconuts, to detergent, tissue, and graters, to sneakers, jeans, and school uniforms. And of course, cooked food. Depending on how enclosed the area is you can get a variety of pungent smells, from scotch bonnet peppers to jack fruit (and frankly far less pleasant aromas).
At Jamaica Cultural Tours we mainly visit 2 markets – Ocho Rios Market on our Ocho Rios Walking Tour, and Cross Roads Market on our Kingston food tour. Additionally, on our Kingston Walking Tour we visit the central market district in and around Parade in Downtown Kingston. It’s a vibrant experience with lots of colours, scents, and music. Buying in the market is a great way for visitors to support the local economy and spread tourism dollars to a segment that traditionally does not directly benefit. Done with our guides, you are in excellent hands.
For those interested in unique, true experiences of Jamaica, a visit to a market, once done with a professional guide, is highly recommended. With imagination you can see how this institution has evolved from its earlier form centuries ago to its modern version, similar but not exactly the same. Being in the hustle and bustle of the commerce, among Jamaicans living their lives, can make you feel connected. And the best part of course is the delicious fruit that you get to sample.
For more information on how to visit markets with us, do get in touch via info@jaculture.com.
by MystykSage @mystyksage
Jamaica, the biggest little country in the world…. spirit of resilience echoed through its music, giving birth to vibrant genres such as Ska, Reggae, Dancehall…. a pulse of resilience, a song of defiance, a dance of triumph.
Once upon a time, in the heart of the Caribbean Sea, there lay a spirited and colorful island known as Jamaica. It was an island of vibrant culture, breathtaking landscape, and a people whose strength and independence shone brighter than the Caribbean sun.
Long ago, in the year 1962, a historic moment unfolded on the shores of Jamaica. The air was filled with excitement and anticipation as the island stood poised on the brink of a new era. August 6th marked the day when Jamaica would emerge as the first English-speaking Caribbean island to claim its independence. The world watched in awe as this small island nation showed that true greatness knows no bounds, defying expectations and proving that size could never determine one’s potential to rule.
Jamaica’s spirit of resilience and defiance echoed through its music, giving birth to vibrant genres such as Ska, Reggae, Dancehall, among others. The rhythm of the island pulsed through the heart of its people, a testament to their passion and creativity that reverberate around the globe.
“We’re small but mighty,” the people of Jamaica would proudly proclaim. “Wi likkle but wi talawah,” an affirmation of their strength and determination to overcome any obstacle in their path. This mantra echoed not only in the melodies that flowed from the island but also in the fierce presence of Jamaican athletes on the global stage.
As the world looked on, Jamaica’s athletes dazzled and conquered, radiating a sense of untamed power and unyielding spirit. From the lightning speed of sprinters to the graceful prowess of bobsledders, Jamaica proved time and again that greatness knows no boundaries, and the spirit of a nation can defy all odds.
In the heart of Jamaica beats a pulse of resilience, a song of defiance, and a dance of triumph. This island, the biggest little country in the world, stands as a shining example to all that, with determination, courage, and an indomitable spirit, any dream is within reach. And so, the story of Jamaica continues to captivate the world, a true testament to the power of a people who are small but mighty, a force to be reckoned with, now and forevermore.
The post above was written by MystykSage, aka Courtney, one of our Tour Guides. He is an accomplished poet, song writer, and story-teller. Meet him in person on one of our tours. Find out more at https://jaculture.com/tours
May starts soon and summer is just around the corner. That means mangoes galore, poincianas blossoming, steamy beach and river outings, and more parties and live concerts. We look forward to meeting up with all our clients, but a special shout out to all the Jamaicans, whether first, second or third generation, coming home for the holidays.
The next few months will be packed with events. We love that for Jamaica 🙂 Below are a few events happening over the next few weeks that we’re highlighting and recommending you check out. Don’t worry, our next post will have a refreshed list.
Taino New Year – May 26
History keeps revising itself. First they said Arawaks, now we say Taino. First they said they were all killed by the Spanish, now we know that Taino people are still with us. Want to learn more and clear up the confusion? Then go to the annual Taino celebration of the New Year and Rainy Season. This year’s theme is “Areito: Celebrating 1,424 years in Yamayeka (Jamaica)”. There will be performances, storytelling, children’s zone, food, music, and more. The event takes place in Woodside, St. Mary, the location of sites sacred to the Tainos. To learn more, visit www.yamayeguani.com.
Wine and Soul – Month of May
From Avant Academy of Music and Johnny’s Live Productions comes “Wine and Soul” for the month of May. Wine & Soul is a weekly live music series which takes place on a Wednesday evening from 8:30 pm to 11:00 pm and is hosted by Jamaican musician Seretse Small. The evening is a celebration of Afro-descendant musical expression, from Jazz to various genres of Jamaican music and American Pop and R&B. The lineup includes major Jamaican singers and instrumentalists such as Harold Davis, Marjorie Myrie, Cat Coore, Earl “Chinna” Smith, and Dean Fraser. To view past events, click here.
The performances happen at Johnny’s Place, 35 Dunrobin Road, Kingston, also known for comedic and theatrical productions.
The cover is an affordable J$2,500 per person. To purchase tickets or to find out more, Whatsapp 876 260 1637 or call 876 667 3377.
Dubbing 62 Exhibition – Ends May 12
This exhibition titled “Dubbing 62: Side A: Babylon + Zion” presents a visual narrative showing the evolution of independent Jamaica through music. The works focus on the changes in Jamaica from multiple perspectives, physical, political and economic, as heard through the music of the 1950s, ‘60s, and ‘70s. The art is that of Matthew McCarthy, a well-known muralist and painter and the works are created by Kerry Chen. The exhibition can be seen at 10A West Kings House Road in Kingston. Updates can be found on IG Narrative Curatorial (@_narrativecuratorial) • Instagram photos and videos
Artworks by Matthew McCarthy
What’s Coming Up for Jamaica Cultural Tours
Starting this June we will be exporting our walking tours to Ocho Rios! While Ocho Rios is a vibrant, booming big little town, most visitors are content to lie on the beach. We will be offering alternatives to those visitors who want to know a lot more about the culture and history of the town and Jamaica. We’re excited!
The next super interesting product we will be offering will be a special excursion for Jamaicans returning home for the summer. We will be creating a trip that looks in depth at the history of the people who came. We say out of many one people is our motto but how much do we know about those people, starting from the earliest inhabitants coming right down. We’re going deep!
Stay close so you can learn about when we launch these two new offerings. Feel free to email us at info@jaculture.com or Whatsapp us at 876 540 8570 to learn more.
Blessings,
Karen
February is almost at an end and what a month it has been! It’s not over yet though. Read to see some events for the week ahead that are worth checking out.
Kingston Night Market – February 27
The weekly Tuesday artisan night market is on, this week with performances from David Cairol, Chi Ching Ching, Naki Wailer, and more. Highly recommended for the high quality of Jamaican art and craft that can be purchased. Another fantastic Kingston based event.
Oliver Samuels’ Teet and Tung – February 27 to March 22
Beloved Jamaican comedian Oliver Samuels is back with a new production titled Teet and Tung (Teeth and Tongue in English). Usually, his productions deliver big belly laughs so this one is worth checking out and with the ticket price at $3,000 not a bad deal. For our international, non-Jamaican readers, this is a great way to experience Patwa (Jamaican language) and Jamaican comedy theatre. To purchase tickets online you may visit here.
JaRIA Reggae Wednesdays – February 28
This event has taken place every Wednesday for the month and edition titled ‘Reggae Praise’ will be the last. It takes place at Festival Market Place, Downtown Kingston. The focus will be on Gospel Reggae. For more info check the JARIA website
Admiral Tibet and Friends at Roots Bamboo Beach Resort – March 1
Admiral Tibet is billed to perform in Negril at Bamboo Beach Resort. Another great to grace the stage. You can check out more at https://rootsbamboobeachresort.com
Artwalk Festival – March 3
The theme of the next Artwalk Festival is music. This free event run by Kingston Creative will include free tours at the Institute of Jamaica, a craft market, free music performances, open mic, paint and sip, and more. Highly recommended.
Jamaica Cultural Tours – February 27 to March 3
This week we will be running our Blue Mountain tour, Music Tour, and Walking Tour. Feel free to email us at info@jaculture.com or Whatsapp us at 876 540 8570 to learn more.
Wishing you a week filled with soul-stirring experiences!
Blessings,
Courtney, Hewitt, Yenique, Karen
As a culture focused Jamaican tour operator, that Vogue article was validating. We have been saying this for years: the best way to experience Jamaica is through culture and certainly one of the best (and underrated) places to experience that culture is Kingston.
The feature titled A Music Lover’s Guide to Jamaica, According to 5 Rising Local Artists provides suggestions for musical venues and experiences that culture seekers should not miss when in Jamaica. We love them all. We especially love Dubwise, Skyline Levels, and Dub Club. The suggestions in the article are made by musicians that we also appreciate and if you haven’t heard about them, you should definitely go and check them out.
Go read the article if you haven’t as yet. Big up Vogue, well done!
To experience Kingston musically with us, check out our Rhythmic Jamaica Music Tour