Sprited creativity, exclusive brands and community come together from March 17 to 23 as the Jamaica Union of Bartenders and Mixologists Limited (JUBAM) raises the curtains on Jamaica Bartender Week.

Themed ‘Mastering the craft: Excellence in every pour‘, the week-long celebration will honor the art and craft of bartending within Jamaica.

Headed by JUBAM president Dr. Debbian Spence-Minott, Jamaica Bartender Week promises a week-long extravaganza celebrating the best talents in the art of bartending. The week’s activities include service excellence seminars, competitions, bar tours across the island, as well as the highly anticipated Jamaica Bartender Expo. The primary objective is to unite Jamaica’s finest bartenders and mixologists to share their expertise while introducing the public to cocktails and mixology.

Dr Spence-Minott, expressed her enthusiasm: “We are delighted to launch the fourth Jamaica Bartender Week. The theme ‘Mastering the Craft: Excellence in Every Pour’ resonates as we continue to reinforce service excellence and responsible service within the bar and beverage business. “Our mission is to underscore the significance of bartenders in the hospitality industry and highlight the exceptional talents of our Jamaican bartending community,” she continued. “We aim to provide a dynamic platform for bartenders and mixologists to showcase their craft and create unforgettable experiences for our patrons.”

Throughout the week, attendees can anticipate various events, including seminars and workshops, and bar hops, which spotlight the latest trends and techniques in mixology. The highlight will be a showcase where top bartenders from across the island vie for the coveted Jamaica’s Top Bartender title.

The grand finale of Jamaica Bartender Week will feature an expo on March 23 at the Police Officers’ Club, offering attendees insights into industry trends and innovations.

“We invite everyone to join us in celebrating the best of Jamaica’s bartending community during this exhilarating week-long event,” remarked Dr Spence-Minott. “Jamaica Bartender Week guarantees an unforgettable experience for all who partake.”

Lead sponsor J. Wray & Nephew Limited (JWN), part of the Campari Group, supports the week’s activities.

Samara South, public affairs and government relations manager at J. Wray & Nephew, expressed delight in supporting the event, emphasizing bartenders’ crucial role in consumer engagement.

“At JWN, we believe excellence in bartending extends beyond creating exceptional beverages to promoting a culture of responsible consumption. Through our continued sponsorship of Jamaica Bartender Week and our comprehensive training programmes at the JWN Academy, we’re equipping the island’s talented bartenders with both the artistry of mixology and the knowledge of responsible pouring practices. This dual focus reflects our unwavering commitment to the professional development of Jamaica’s hospitality professionals while simultaneously safeguarding the wellbeing of consumers. We take pride in our role as industry leaders who not only celebrate the craft of bartending but also champion responsible drinking as an essential component of Jamaica’s vibrant hospitality culture,” she ended.