Best Weekend Ever Launches 5th Anniversary in Miami Ahead of Ocho Rios Return

The annual event celebrates five years of “Escape to Paradise” with seven curated experiences across Jamaica’s Independence Weekend celebrations

Best Weekend Ever promises 7 premium events across Jamaica’s Independence Weekend.

The countdown to the 5th anniversary of Best Weekend Ever is officially on, following a special launch event in Miami, Florida on Sunday, May 17, during the popular Rise and Toast brunch experience at The Urban.

Set for August 6-10 in Ocho Rios under the theme “Escape to Paradise,” the Independence Weekend series will feature seven curated events across five days, blending music, culture, luxury lifestyle, and authentic Jamaican energy.

“This year Best Weekend Ever officially begins on August 6 with Rise and Toast, so we thought it was only fitting to launch the season at the actual event in Miami. The energy, culture and celebration that Rise and Toast represents aligns perfectly with what Best Weekend Ever has become over the last five years; an experience where people from around the world come together to celebrate freedom, friendship, music and Jamaica in a premium way,” said Dwayne Dacres, Managing Director of Best Weekend Ever.

“What started as a getaway has now become tradition for many of our patrons,” he continued. “We are proud that Best Weekend Ever not only creates memorable moments, but also contributes meaningfully to the economy of Ocho Rios by driving tourism with patrons traveling annually from the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom and across the Caribbean to support local businesses which creates employment opportunities and showcases Jamaica to the world. In addition; the export value of entertainment continues to be highlighted as all events on the Best Weekend Ever calendar (except Late Check Out) has been successfully staged within North America consistently for a number of years,” he concluded.

The Miami launch also unveiled details surrounding this year’s event lineup, with premium tequila brand Don Julio, distributed by Red Stripe, returning as Title Sponsor. Nadine Hylton, Brand Manager for Don Julio, highlighted the partnership’s focus on celebrating authentic Jamaican culture, tourism, hospitality, and entertainment while creating unforgettable experiences for both local and diaspora patrons. She reiterated that the brand is “excited to continue the partnership and to be a part of a celebration that attracts visitors locally and in the Diaspora while creating moments that reflect energy, creativity and pride that define our nation.”

Best Weekend Ever 2026 will feature a mix of luxury brunches, beach parties, nightlife events, and themed experiences across Plantation Cove and Puerto Seco Beach, including Rise and Toast, Allure, I Love Soca, Daybreak Western Soirée, Milk and Honey, Zimi Seh Beach, and the farewell event Late Check Out. Season band holders will also receive special discounts and offers at participating attractions, restaurants, and hospitality partners throughout Ocho Rios.

Representing the Jamaica Tourist Board at the Miami launch was Christopher Dacosta, Destination and Digital Marketing Manager who underscored the significance of destination experiences like Best Weekend Ever in positioning Jamaica globally.

“Jamaica is a destination, it’s a vibe, it’s energy, it’s a feeling. And that’s exactly why the Jamaica Tourist Board is excited to support Best Weekend Ever 2026. This event series incorporates music, culture, unforgettable moments, and the kind of experiences people travel for. Travel is about collecting memories, sharing experiences, and living stories worth telling, and Jamaica delivers that naturally. So if you’ve been looking for your sign to book the trip, this is it. Grab your crew, come experience the culture, and see why your Best Weekend Ever can only happen in Jamaica.”

Best Weekend Ever continues to position Ocho Rios as a growing global hub for lifestyle tourism, entertainment, and cultural connection.