The debut staging of Fi Di Gyal Dem Weekend 2025 delivered a phenomenal, three-day celebration of women, community, and culture, drawing attendees to a series of events that blended music, food, and relaxation in an atmosphere of unity.

The festival, spearheaded by creative engineer and filmmaker Tavia S.K. Benjamin, unfolded from February 7 to 9 and featured diverse experiences across Kingston and Bull Bay.

An Intimate Start with the House Party

The festivities opened with a private house party in celebration of Benjamin’s birthday. The intimate gathering set a lively tone for the weekend as guests enjoyed music from DJ Ravas, Ear Audigy, DJ Gyallis, DJ Lee, and Barcelona’s DJ Wakanda Queen.

“This festival was more than I could have ever asked for. A weekend celebrating women, placing them at the forefront, sharing love with friends and family, and creating an atmosphere of alignment, love, and everything we desire to see in a balanced world,” Benjamin said. “It was perfect.”

On Saturday, the LoveXFood Street Festival transformed a private property on Hopefield Avenue into a culinary haven. With seventy-five per cent of vendors being women-owned businesses, the event highlighted Jamaica’s street food culture alongside artisan crafts and family-friendly activities. Guests were also invited to share positive messages on a Love Board, adding a personal touch to the festivities.

“It was amazing to see different vendors networking, and the customer turnout was fantastic as well!” said vendor Karona Powell of Karona Jerk Seafood.

A Relaxing Finale by the Beach

The weekend concluded with the This Is Love Beach Chill at Jamnesia Beach in Bull Bay. Attendees enjoyed a laid-back day featuring yoga sessions with instructor Neo, massages from Blessed Hands Ja, and music by DJs Zorubah, Ravas, Lee, Ear Audigy, and SolarPunk.

Festival-goer Zahra Warner described the event as a “celebration of the feminine spirit” and praised Benjamin’s vision. “Tavia truly manifested her vision: one in which she shared and bloomed in community with others. She has created something truly unique in Jamaica. These spaces felt alive and nourishing.”

The event has laid a strong foundation for future editions, with Benjamin voicing her gratitude for the support she received. The festival also carries a cultural mission to reclaim “gyal” as a term of endearment, celebrating women as friends bonded by mutual respect and love.

Sponsors of the event included the Ministry of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport, Str8 Vybz, Touchstone Link, Jamnesia Surf Camp, and Sherwin Williams.

See highlights below: