Good Time to Visit

Weather

The weather in Jamaica tends to be rainy between May and October, tropical for the rest of the year, although the mountainous regions tend to be more temperate. The country is prone to hurricanes during the rainy season, particularly between June and November. There tends to be light rain showers outside the main rainy season. (For more information, see Climate in Jamaica).

Visitors are advised to bring lightweight cottons and linens. Light woollens (avoid synthetics) may be needed for the evenings. Raincoats and umbrellas are often needed all year round.

Festivals

July and August sees the two big Jamaican beach festivals, the Reggae Sunsplash (Ocho Rios) and Reggae Sumfest (Montego Bay). Carnival takes place after Easter on the university campus in Kingston, where you can shake it on down to reggae, calypso, and dance hall soca. Jonkanoo is a Christmas celebration, with a masquerade parade through the streets. Other festivals such as yachting events, cricket matches, a fashion week and a literary festival are held on the island.

Public Holidays

The following table shows the public holidays celebrated in Jamaica: