The island of Jamaica is home to almost 3 million people, the late great Bob Marley, reggae music, dancehall, and many of today's most celebrated artists. However, 1989 saw over 300 partiers hitting the streets for Kingston's first ever Jamaica carnival parade, organized by Byron Lee and the Oakridge Boys (not the Country Gospel music group!). For many years Byron Lee had a desire to bring to Jamaica the joy and happiness he experienced performing and participating in Carnivals throughout the Caribbean. Since then, with around 1500 masqueraders, the annual carnival celebrations have become one of the largest annual events in Jamaica.

Each year audiences are treat to a themed carnival, which in the past have ranged from "Paradise" in 1989 to Bacchanal Gone Hollywood in 2009. Unfortunately, in 2009, Jamaica Bacchanal proved to be the latest victim of the world wide financial crisis. The yearly carnival event relies heavily upon the support of many corporate sponsors. Faced with the lack luster support from corporate sponsors, Bacchanal Jamaica was officially canceled. Possibly spurred by the spirit of the event's founder and greatest supporter, Byron Lee, Bacchanal Jamaica still took place in spite of the official cancellation. With the support of local businesses, preparations for 2010 are in full swing.

Bacchanal Jamaica Dates & Location

Jamaica carnival events are held during the Easter week.

Bacchanal Jamaica Contact Information

For the latest information about Bacchanal Jamaica contact:

Bacchanal Jamaica Trip Planner

Are you traveling to attend Bacchanal Jamaica? Visit the links below to view listings of local hotels:

• Downtown Kingston
• Independence Park
• Lime Cay Beach

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