Treasure Beach Food, Rum & Reggae Festival Unites Jamaica in Support of Agriculture Recovery

The one-day benefit concert brought together culture, music, and community, blending entertainment with purpose to generate vital support for the agricultural sector’s post-hurricane rebound. “This wasn’t just a show - it was Jamaica uniting for our farmers,” Festival Director Jason Henzell said

Festival Director Gregory Wright (R) shares the lens with the Festival’s headline act, Capleton

The 2025 staging of the Treasure Beach Food, Rum & Reggae Festival, reimagined this year as a one-day benefit concert, delivered a powerful celebration of culture, community, and compassion at the Ranny Williams Entertainment Centre on Sunday, December 7.

Patrons were treated to world-class reggae performances, culinary showcases, artisanal displays, and a vibrant Farmer’s Market, all united under one cause, supporting the recovery of Jamaica’s agricultural sector in the wake of Hurricane Melissa.

The benefit event brought high energy from performers including Fyahneer, Skygrass, and Turbulence, a special surprise appearance from Richie Spice, and sets from Agent Sasco and Capleton, closing the night with a strong sense of resilience and unity.

“I’m honoured to be part of a worthy cause that celebrates our culture and uplifts our communities in times of need,” said Capleton. “Anything that highlights our roots, our culture, and our people is something I will always support. I love the music, but I love the people too, so being here is a blessing and a joy. I believe in sharing and giving back - Jah blesses us so we can bless others. If I can help put a smile on the faces of my fellow Jamaicans, then I’m honoured to do it.”

The event stayed true to its roots, highlighting a Food and Artisan Village with more than 10 food vendors and 15 local creators, many from parishes hardest hit by the hurricane. Meanwhile, the Farmer’s Market provided essential support to small farmers affected by Hurricane Melissa, giving them a platform to connect with buyers, rebuild their earnings, and share their powerful stories of perseverance.

Festival Director Jason Henzell described the day as a “powerful full-circle moment for community engagement and cultural expression.” He said, “Though things took an unexpected turn, our team decided that the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa demanded something different from us, and Jamaica responded with heart. Seeing our people come alive in support of our event, and more importantly, in support of our efforts to raise funds that will make a tangible difference, reminds us why this festival exists. Our farmers are the backbone of our communities, and today’s turnout sends a clear message: we are standing with them as they rebuild stronger.”

“Though things took an unexpected turn, our team decided that the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa demanded something different from us, and Jamaica responded with heart. Seeing our people come alive in support of our event, and more importantly, in support of our efforts to raise funds that will make a tangible difference, reminds us why this festival exists..”

Henzell added, “We knew people loved this festival, but what we saw here today was a deep commitment to recovery and resilience.”

Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Mining, Hon. Floyd Green, commended the initiative, noting the vital role events like this play in national recovery. “Our farmers have endured tremendous hardship in the wake of Hurricane Melissa, but what we saw at this festival is the true spirit of Jamaica: unity, compassion, and action,” he said. “I applaud the Treasure Beach Food, Rum & Reggae team for stepping up in this critical moment. When our cultural and creative communities rally behind agriculture, it sends a strong message that we are committed to rebuilding not just farms, but livelihoods, families, and futures. This kind of support helps ensure that our farmers can rise stronger than before.”

Part proceeds from the event will support relief and rebuilding efforts within Jamaica’s agricultural sector, helping fishers and farmers recover lost crops, restore infrastructure, and restart their businesses - as the Treasure Beach Food, Rum & Reggae Festival continues its mission of community upliftment and cultural pride. “We are energised, grateful, and more committed than ever to supporting the communities that built this festival from the ground up.” Jason Henzell concluded.