Reggae Sumfest kickstarted its week-long festival last Sunday (July 13) with a vibrant day of frolic and festivity at the Catherine Hall Entertainment Complex in Montego Bay, St James. 

Hundreds of Montegonians and tourists poured into the venue for the annual family fun day, a lively affair that seamlessly marked another hugely successful staging.

Interactive booths dotted the venue, drawing high engagement from attendees of all ages. From painting the creative art wall at the Cran Wata booth to accessing free medical and dental care provided by Hospiten, there was no shortage of activity. Patrons praised the Reggae Sumfest team for not only creating a space to unwind but also offering valuable services that many said they would otherwise be unable to afford.

Daniella Wynter, originally from Kingston and visiting family in Montego Bay, shared that she brought her two children after learning there was no admission cost before noon. Grateful for the free dental care, she lauded the organisers for easing a financial burden.

“When I heard about this event and then realised I would be in Montego Bay in the same time frame with my children, I decided it would not miss me,” she said. “I’m the kind of mother who does all the check-ups, the teeth cleaning, etc., and it costs a lot, so I was even more excited to hear that they were offering those services for free. I brought them, got them done and they also had a blast.”

Shaniin Morales-Lewin, Hospiten’s commercial director, noted that this year’s turnout was another reminder that Reggae Sumfest remains deeply rooted in community building.

“It’s a pleasure for us to be apart of this event. The turnout has been absolutely phenomenal. We have done more than 100 back-to-school medicals and complimentary dental services and to be able to give back to our communities has been amazing,” she said. “Being a part of this event is a no brainer for us. Montego Bay is the home of Reggae Sumfest and Hospiten and so anytime they call us, we’re always going to be ready. There is no better way to kick off Reggae Sumfest series of events than here at this amazing family event.”

Beyond the philanthropic efforts, Family Fun Day delivered top-tier entertainment. Hosted by Trippple X and Badda Bling from Di Unit, with musical energy provided by Di Unit, DJ Lollipop and DJ Collision, the vibe was electric. 

Patrons also enjoyed a variety of friendly competitions, with major giveaways from festival sponsors. Among the standout prizes were VIP passes to Dunn’s River Falls, courtesy of the Urban Development Corporation (UDC).

According to Latoya Chambers, UDC’s acting marketing manager, the event was a natural fit.

“The UDC is all about development and you can’t have that without people and of course, families. It was a very festive crowd with kids of all ages and the interaction between them and our team has been fabulous. Having this event here that’s free for families, it sets the tone for a festival that is not only about enjoyment but about the people.”

Danielia McLean, Reggae Sumfest’s sponsorship liaison, summed up the heart behind the event:

“The Reggae Sumfest Fun Day was a true celebration of community, compassion, and culture. From the free medical, dental, and optical services to the laughter of children enjoying the games and entertainment, it was a day filled with love and purpose,” she said. “We’re proud to give back to the people who give so much to Jamaican music and to make a meaningful impact beyond the stage. This is what Sumfest is all about – uplifting lives while celebrating our roots.”