Annual Events In Kingston

Bob Marley Week
 
 
Reggae fans and Rastafarians gather in Kingston during the first week of February each year to enjoy a feast of events lined up to commemorate the life and music of Jamaica's best-known son, Bob Marley. Apart from a concert, the week includes symposiums, lectures, karaoke contests, a fashion show, exhibition and various other events related to Marley, who died of cancer in 1981. The week is organised by the Bob Marley Foundation and Bob Marley Museum.

Jamaica Carnival

Jam-packed with spectacle, pageantry and revelry, the biggest festival in Jamaica is a good-natured annual bash that takes the island's music into the streets of Kingston. Since the first carnival in 1990 the event has grown phenomenally to attract tens of thousands of costumed merry-makers and spectators who congregate over the carnival weeks and line the route for the final Parade. Other centres on the island also hold carnival events, and contestants from the different parishes vie for the title of 'Soca Monarch', dancing in a special competition.

29: Kingstopn Transport Overview

Public transport is not recommended to visitors to Kingston due to overcrowding and unsafe conditions aboard the buses, and driving conditions are chaotic. Downtown is easily navigable on foot, but walking anywhere at night is not advisable. Taxis come in various shapes, sizes and vintages, but should bear a red licence plate with the letters 'PPV' indicating it is an authorised taxi. Passengers should negotiate a fare before setting off.

By Bus and Minibus
Most of the buses are full to the brim and getting on may not seem possible. If you come out smiling, you’re holiday may cost you less than you expected. But remember, patience is the name of the game, as bus drivers never stick to any schedule. Bus stops are where you want them to be – if you want to get on, just hail a passing bus and when you want to get off, just shout to man behind the wheel. Minibuses are pretty much the same as buses, crowed and unreliable but cheap.

Tip – the earlier you start the better chances of a comfortable journey.

By Taxis
You’ll find a number of taxis cruising the streets – remember to check whether they are authorized or not.