Reggae Sumfest kick-started its weeklong festival on Sunday with a vibrant day at Catherine Hall Stadium in Montego Bay, St James.

Hundreds poured into the venue for the annual Family Fun Day, marking 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.

Amid the excitement, this little one finds the perfect spot to relax and soak in the festivities, her colourful balloons adding a cheerful touch to the vibrant atmosphere of Reggae Sumfest Family Fun Day.

“When I heard about this event and then realized 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… 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: “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.”

There was plenty to do at the event, including face painting.

Trippple X keeps the crowd engaged at Reggae Sumfest Family Fun Day with giveaways, games, and lively entertainment for the entire family.