How to Celebrate New Year’s Eve in Jamaica
New Year’s Eve in Jamaica is chocked full of parties and events across the island. Not only is this a time to celebrate, but it is also a time for reflection. Whether you are looking to spend the time dancing with DJs on beaches or in villas or gathering with the community to attend a Watch Night Service at a Church, Jamaica affords you the option to do either or both. And Captain’s Aviation will be flying across the island to get you to your destination!
Attending a Watch Night Service
On December 31, 1862, slaves in the US gathered in churches on the first Watch Night to await President Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation to take effect. For those looking to reflect on the past year, the Watch Night services at the Fellowship Tabernacle in Kingston or the Family Church on the Rock in Montego Bay are very popular. Just prior to midnight, communities will join at various venues, such as these, to see the New Year together.
Round Hill Hotel Black-Tie Party
One of the most exclusive resorts on the island, Round Hill Hotel is extremely popular with both local and international celebrities. This resort has an exclusive black-tie New Year’s Eve party that brings together a global crowd to celebrate the New Year at one of the most beautiful locations in Jamaica.
Treasure Beach Parties
The beach parties at Treasure beach are hosted by various DJs and reggae bands. The six miles of sandy beaches and private coves, make this a unique New Year’s Eve experience.
Beach Parties at Negril Beach
Negril Beach hosts various New Year’s Eve parties, with music, dancing, and fireworks.
Goldeneye New Year’s Eve Parties
Goldeneye hosts extravagant New Year’s Eve parties on the island. The hotel is owned by Chris Blackwell of Island records, therefore attracting many global celebrities. The parties boast both live music and DJs, fireworks on the beach, and free-flowing champagne throughout.
Port Antonio New Year’s Eve Parties
Port Antonio is a more lowkey destination to spend New Year’s, but has a downtown area with music and parties and is often a favorite spot for many celebrities.
New Year’s Eve Hotels
Many of the top hotels in Jamaica have their own parties and offer package deals that can be included in your accommodation. Some of the hotel venues that host their own celebrations usually include the Royalton Negril Resort and Spa, The Trident Hotel Port Antonio, and Strawberry Hill Kingston.
Harbour Fest and Fireworks are free public events on the waterfront in downtown Kingston. Sound systems play music to energize the crowds and Jamaican cuisine and rum are sold by vendors throughout the streets. If you don’t want to be in the heart of all of the celebrations, escape to the hills of Kingston to enjoy the show from above.
This all-inclusive party on New Year’s Day was established in 1989 by Juicey, TC and Doc, and has become nationally famous. Climax is the signature event and one of the most dynamic parties of the year. The party usually begins around 4PM on January 1st and it is a fully catered all-inclusive event with endless supplies of food and alcohol.
