TREASURE BEACH, St Elizabeth — In light of the widespread devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa, organisers of the Treasure Beach Food, Rum & Reggae Festival have announced the postponement of this year’s event.

The decision comes as festival directors, sponsors, entertainers, and community partners redirect their collective focus and resources toward relief and rebuilding efforts across Treasure Beach and surrounding areas.

Festival co-directors Jason Henzell and Gregory Wright are quoted sharing: “Jamaica has been deeply impacted by the passing of Hurricane Melissa. Our hearts are with all the families, farmers, business owners, and communities who are currently navigating loss, displacement, and the urgent work of rebuilding. To St Elizabeth, our hearts are with you during this unimaginably difficult period. At this time, the priority is the people… our people. As a result, the 2025 staging of the Food, Rum & Reggae Festival will not proceed in its current form. We are committed to supporting recovery efforts, repairing, rebuilding, and standing with the parish we call home.”

The organisers are collaborating closely with the BREDS Treasure Beach Foundation, local authorities, and community groups to assess needs and coordinate assistance for affected residents. Efforts will include fund-raising, volunteer coordination, and the restoration of key community spaces that have been damaged by the storm.

Ticket holders can expect an update once next steps have been confirmed.

Henzell and Wright continued: “We ask everyone — locals, diaspora, supporters, friends near and far — to keep St Elizabeth and Jamaica in your hearts and to support however you are able. Whether through donations or volunteering, your support matters. Treasure Beach has always been a place of spirit, unity, and love. Together we will rebuild stronger, with purpose and with each other.”

Those wishing to support the relief efforts can do so through the BREDS Treasure Beach Foundation, a non-profit dedicated to building strong, self-sufficient communities through education, sports, environmental awareness, and sustainable development initiatives.