Easter weekend in Montego Bay, Jamaica, is a vibrant blend of tradition, culture, and tropical adventure. From April 18 to 21, 2025, the city comes alive with regattas, beach parties, family-friendly events, and unique Jamaican Easter customs. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, cultural immersion, or thrilling activities, Montego Bay offers something for every traveler. Here’s your comprehensive guide to making the most of Easter weekend in this Caribbean paradise.

1. Experience the Montego Bay Yacht Club Easter Regatta

One of the highlights of Easter in Montego Bay is the annual Easter Regatta at the Montego Bay Yacht Club. This free event draws both local and international sailors for a weekend of competitive races, lively parties, and family-friendly activities. Even if you’re not a sailor, the regatta is a spectacle to behold—watch the sails glide across the bay, enjoy the festive atmosphere, and mingle with locals and visitors alike. The regatta runs from April 18 to 21, making it a must-see for anyone in town over the holiday weekend1.

2. Dive into Jamaican Easter Traditions

Easter is one of Jamaica’s most significant holidays, marked by unique customs and delicious food. Don’t miss the chance to try the iconic Jamaican Easter bun and cheese—a sweet, spiced bread served with slices of local cheese, enjoyed by families across the island. You might also encounter the tradition of “egg setting,” where eggs are placed in water at sunrise on Good Friday to predict the future based on the shapes formed by the egg whites.

3. Join the Festivities: Parties, Parades, and Carnival

Montego Bay is known for its lively Easter celebrations, including street parties, parades, and the famous Bacchanal Carnival. While the main Carnival parade is in Kingston, Montego Bay hosts its own vibrant events, with music, dancing, and colorful costumes. Look out for beach parties like “Rum Punch Sundaze” on April 20 and live reggae performances, such as “Reggae Pon Di Beach: Capleton Live” on April 18 at Roots Bamboo Beach Resort4. These events offer a true taste of Jamaican culture and hospitality.

4. Family-Friendly Easter Events and Brunches

Traveling with kids? Many resorts and venues in Montego Bay host special Easter activities for families. The luxurious Half Moon Resort, for example, offers an Easter Day Party on April 17, a festive Easter Sunday Brunch at Hayward’s on April 20, and a Marching Band Parade on April 21. There are also Easter egg painting sessions and beach games throughout the weekend, ensuring fun for all ages.

5. Explore Montego Bay’s Top Attractions

When you’re not soaking up the Easter festivities, take time to explore Montego Bay’s natural beauty and historic sites:

Doctor’s Cave Beach: Famous for its crystal-clear waters and soft sand, perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
Martha Brae River: Enjoy a bamboo rafting adventure down this tranquil river, guided by local experts.
Rose Hall Great House: Discover the legend of the White Witch on a guided tour of this historic plantation house.
Aqua Sol Theme Park: Ideal for families, with water trampolines, go-karts, and a range of water sports.

6. Adventure and Day Trips

For those seeking adventure, Montego Bay is a gateway to some of Jamaica’s most exciting excursions:

Catamaran Cruises: Set sail to Negril’s Seven Mile Beach or Rick’s Café for a day of sun, snorkeling, and reggae vibes.
ATV and Zipline Tours: Explore the lush Jamaican countryside on an ATV or soar through the treetops on a zipline adventure.
Luminous Lagoon Night Tour: Witness the magical glow of bioluminescent waters on a night boat tour—a truly unforgettable experience.

7. Savor Jamaican Cuisine

Easter is a time for feasting in Jamaica. In addition to bun and cheese, sample local favorites like escovitch fish (especially popular on Good Friday), jerk chicken, and fresh tropical fruits. Many restaurants and resorts offer special Easter menus and brunches, so be sure to indulge in the island’s culinary delights.

8. Eat, Shop, Stroll, and Soak Up the Vibes

Montego Bay’s Main Street Rose Hall offers the Best of Jamaica, All in One Place! It has the most charming promenade of cute boutiques and stores. After you find the perfect outfit to wear while you are on vacation, or memento to commemorate your lovely vacation in Jamaica - you can also enjoy a Scotchies Jerk lunch. Indulge in a Devon House ice cream for dessert, drink a delicious cup of Blue Mountain Coffee and then reward yourself with a nice Jamaican rum cocktail at The Rum Yard's Blue Bar. You can also take in some fun pictures and relax by the iconic water wheel to sweet reggae music.

Tips for Visiting Montego Bay Over Easter

Book Early: Easter is a peak travel period in Jamaica. Reserve accommodations, tours, and event tickets in advance.
Respect Local Customs: Many businesses may close or have reduced hours on Good Friday and Easter Sunday. Plan accordingly.
Stay Safe: Montego Bay is generally safe for tourists, but always be mindful of your belongings and surroundings, especially in crowded areas.

Easter weekend in Montego Bay is a celebration of Jamaican culture, community, and natural beauty. Whether you’re sailing in the regatta, dancing at a beach party, or savoring traditional Easter treats, you’ll find endless ways to make your holiday unforgettable.

It offers something for everyone—whether you’re seeking cultural immersion, thrilling adventures, or relaxing beach days. With its blend of traditions and modern festivities, this Caribbean island promises an unforgettable holiday experience from April 18–21, 2025!

Embrace the island’s warm hospitality, join in the festivities, and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Visit Main Street Rose Hall, Montego Bay when next in Jamaica and buy unique Jamaican made art & products at several of their stores and at The Artisan Market Place. You can also enjoy our murals, installations, tax-free & souvenir stores, rums & spirits, Jamaican Blue Mountain Coffee, art gallery, resort wear, Jamaican F&B options and much more while relaxing and listening to authentic Jamaican music.

Main Street Rose Hall is closed on Good Friday and Easter Monday but is open on Saturday, April 19, 2025 from 9:00am to 5pm. Come and visit us!

Take pictures, post & tag us! #MainStreetRoseHall #ExperienceTheBestOfJamaica Main Street Rose Hall support Jamaican Made products. #BuyJamaicanEmployJamaicans

Easter Weekend in Montego Bay, Jamaica: The Ultimate 2025 Guide