**Coronavirus has impacted the Jamaica Carnival 2020 schedule. In order to protect party patrons, carnival has been postponed to July 2022. You can find info on the Jamaica Carnival 2022 here.*
Upcoming Carnivals for 2020 are quickly approaching, as bands are gearing up to launch for Jamaica Carnival 2020. Jamaica Carnival 2020 events are on the following dates: October 19 – October 26, 2020. Notable events like Moonshine, and Kes Tuesday take place earlier in the week.
The parade will take place on October 25, 2020.
GETTING THERE
Jamaica has two airports, KIN in Kingston, where all the events are being held or MBJ in Montego Bay. It may be cheaper to fly into MBJ but keep in mind you will have to take a bus (Knutsford Express) or taxi to Kingston (2.5 hour drive).
WHERE TO PARTY
Jamaica Carnival offers most of the popular parties we’ve come to love from other carnivals. Soca Brainwash, Scorch, Caesar’s Army, Candy Coated, and Roast are some staple promoters that will be there during carnival week.
CLICK HERE JAMAICA CARNIVAL 2022 FETE LIST
WHERE TO GET COSTUMES
With several bands to choose from, masqueraders now have options. Amenities, costume quality, vibes and customer service should all play a major role in the band you select. Backline costumes can cost you about $300-$400usd, while a frontline costume can cost you about $600-$1000usd, depending on the band of your choice. Your band options are:
- Bacchanal Jamaica launched on November 2, 2019
- Xodus Carnival launched on November 9, 2019
- Xaymaca International launched on November 29, 2019
- One World Rebellion band launch details unknown
- Jamaica Carnival Band band launch details unknown
WHERE TO STAY
Most of the reputable hotels are in a section of Kingston called New Kingston. Some hotels to check out are:
Though Terra Nova is not in the heart of New Kingston, is it also a viable option. AirBnB is also an option for apartment rentals if a hotel reservation will not fit your needs.
Note: Each band has THEIR OWN route. If you are staying near New Kingston, you are in the most optimal location for fast access to your band’s starting point.
Be mindful of the neighborhoods you might stay in and walking outside at night – Kingston can be dangerous. I highly recommend using notable taxi services and/or hired drivers for your transportation to and from parties. Some reputable taxi services are Mortec, City Guide, Express, El Shaddai and On Time. Check NetSearch Jamaica for contact information.
TOURISTY THINGS TO CHECKOUT
If you traveled from far or plan to make Jamaica a relaxing vacation after you finish wining on the road, here are some places to check out while you’re already on the island.
- Blue Lagoon
- YS Falls
- Dunn’s River Falls:
- Reach Falls
- Rio Grande Bamboo Rafting
- Bob Marley Museum
- Hike Blue Mountain
- Falmouth (glistening waters)
Is there anything else you want to know? Ask me in the comments below.
Yours in Mas,
So what area OR AREAS in Jamaica are close to the parade site?
Or where else would you recoomend if those hotels are booked out ?
How do you arrives at the band on Parade day? Where can you park?
Good question lol — your driver or taxi will drop you off.
Hello. Thank you for this information. Where exactly does the Road March take place? I’m trying to see what the distance is from there to the hotel.
Each band has a different route. Your band could be starting in Liguanea. Most of the hotels are in New Kingston and are within 5-7 minutes drive.
Has the fete list been released yet? Where can I find it?
Hi Sharron, check the homepage
is it a good idea to rent a car to get around or rely on a taxi when going to parties at night? were staying in kingston.
Hi Vickie, if you are familiar with the area then yes get a car, if not, I would not recommend it. You can hire a driver upon arrival by getting a taxi’s contact info while on the ground