Treasure Beach Food, Rum & Reggae Festival Postponed Following Melissa Aftermath

Organisers have shifted resources toward relief and rebuilding efforts across St. Elizabeth. The festival, originally scheduled for November 7–9, was planned as a celebration of the region’s resilience after Hurricane Beryl. Now, in the wake of the even more destructive Hurricane Melissa, those plans have been put on hold.

St. Elizabeth was among the hardest-hit areas, sustaining severe damage. (Photo: Sheldon Levene)

Organisers of the Treasure Beach Food, Rum & Reggae Festival have announced the postponement of this year’s staging following the widespread devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa, particularly across Jamaica’s western coastline and the parish of St. Elizabeth, which suffered severe damage.

The decision comes as festival directors, sponsors, entertainers, and community partners redirect their focus and resources toward urgent relief and rebuilding efforts in Treasure Beach and surrounding communities.

Festival Directors Jason Henzell and Gregory Wright are quoted here sharing, “Jamaica has been deeply impacted by the passing of Hurricane Melissa. Our hearts are with all the families, farmers, business owners and communities who are currently navigating loss, displacement, and the urgent work of rebuilding. To St. Elizabeth, our hearts are with you during this unimaginably difficult period. At this time, the priority is the people - our people. As a result, The 2025 staging of the Food, Rum & Reggae Festival will not proceed in its current form. We are committed to supporting recovery efforts, repairing, rebuilding and standing with the parish we call home.”

The festival, originally scheduled for November 7–9, is known for showcasing Jamaica’s southwest coast, celebrating island flavours, authentic South Coast vibes, and the region’s resilience following Hurricane Beryl. Now, in the wake of the even more destructive Hurricane Melissa, organisers face significant new challenges.

Henzell and Wright continued, “We ask everyone - locals, diaspora, supporters, friends near and far - to keep St. Elizabeth and Jamaica in your hearts and to support however you are able. Whether through donations or volunteering, your support matters. Treasure Beach has always been a place of spirit, unity, and love. Together, we will rebuild stronger, with purpose and with each other.”

Organisers are working with the BREDS Treasure Beach Foundation, local authorities, and community groups to assess needs and support recovery, including fundraising, volunteer efforts, and restoring damaged community spaces.