Hope Royal Botanic Gardens to host ‘Roots of Jamaica’ festival

KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Hope Gardens Nature Preservation Foundation will celebrate Jamaica’s rich cultural heritage with the staging of the Roots of Jamaica: Poetry, Culture & Flavours Festival on Saturday, October 17, 2026, at the Hope Royal Botanic Gardens in Kingston. The festival, which runs from 11:00 am to 5:00 pm, will bring together poetry, music, food, history and family entertainment under the theme “Honouring Our Heroes. Celebrating Our Heritage. Inspiring Our Future.” The event forms part of the National Heroes Day weekend celebrations and will pay tribute to Jamaica’s national heroes, including Nanny of the Maroons, Marcus Garvey, Paul Bogle, Sam Sharpe, George William Gordon, Norman Manley and Alexander Bustamante. Organisers say the festival is designed to provide an engaging experience for Jamaicans and visitors while creating opportunities to celebrate the traditions, stories and creative expressions that have helped shape the nation. Renowned Jamaican media personality, actress and cultural advocate Dahlia Harris will serve as master of ceremonies. The Roots of Jamaica festival will feature a full day of cultural experiences, including: — Poetry and Spoken Word: Performances and literary presentations celebrating Jamaica’s history, people and heritage. — Cultural Performances: Traditional music, folk presentations and other expressions of Jamaica’s vibrant cultural traditions. — Jamaican Food and Flavours: A celebration of authentic Jamaican cuisine, including traditional stews, rice and peas, festival and other local favourites. — Family Activities: Interactive experiences, educational displays and activities designed to engage children, parents and visitors of all ages. — Heritage and History: Opportunities to learn more about Jamaica’s national heroes and the people, traditions and stories that have shaped the island. The foundation is inviting families, cultural enthusiasts, food lovers and members of the public to spend the day at Hope Gardens while celebrating the creativity, history and traditions that make Jamaica unique. Adults will pay $1,000 for admission and children $500.