Organisers of Painted are gearing up for its first staging of 2026 with the most ambitious production plans to date.

Under the theme ‘Barbie Drip’, the event, scheduled for June 27, will transform Long Bay Beach Park in Negril into a vibrant spectacle of colour, music, and entertainment, introducing a premium all-inclusive experience featuring more paint, bigger paint cannons, foam machines, premium food powered by Eleven Restaurant and Bar, unlimited drinks, live performances, and enhanced production.

The event, which has become a fixture on Jamaica’s entertainment calendar, has only missed a few stagings since its inception due to the COVID-19 pandemic. After years of being held annually, Painted expanded to two editions each year beginning in 2025, reflecting its growing popularity among patrons both locally and overseas.

Event Director Glenton Rowe noted that every staging introduces new attractions while maintaining the immersive atmosphere that has made Painted a household name.

Created with the vision of bringing a world-class entertainment experience to western Jamaica, Painted combines paint, water, foam, powder, music and interactive attractions into what organisers describe as more than just a party.

This year’s concept invites patrons to embrace creativity, self-expression and freedom through a colourful fantasy-inspired experience designed to appeal to both returning supporters and first-time attendees.

“The event has grown well beyond its Westmoreland roots, attracting patrons from Kingston, St James, St Ann, St Elizabeth, Hanover, and members of the Jamaican Diaspora.” Rowe shared with the Jamaica Observer, “Many of whom now schedule their vacations around the event.”

Its popularity has also generated tangible economic benefits for the region. Hotels, guest houses, restaurants, transportation providers, vendors, and numerous service businesses experience increased activity leading up to and during the event. Hundreds of Jamaicans also benefit directly and indirectly through employment opportunities in security, production, hospitality, entertainment, transportation and event operations.

“We believe Painted has helped establish Westmoreland as a destination for premium entertainment experiences capable of attracting national and international attention.” Rowe stated.

Despite its continued growth, Rowe says the event has been built primarily through the dedication of its team, loyal patrons, and strong community support.

“Painted belongs to the people as much as it does to the organisers,” Rowe said. “The loyalty and support from patrons, businesses and residents have played a major role in our success and growth over the years.”

With thousands expected to descend on Long Bay Beach Park, organisers say safety remains one of their highest priorities.

Professional security personnel, medical teams, emergency response planning, controlled entry points, crowd management systems, and close collaboration with relevant authorities form part of the event’s comprehensive operational plan.

“We create exciting experiences, but responsible event management is equally important,” Rowe stated. “We place significant emphasis on safety protocols, risk management, and ensuring patrons can enjoy themselves responsibly.”

As the event continues to expand, questions have also been raised about its environmental impact, particularly regarding the large volumes of paint used during the celebration.

Rowe dismissed concerns that the festival negatively affects the coastline, stressing that environmental stewardship remains central to the event’s operations.

“We take environmental concerns seriously,” he said. “The paint used at Painted is non-toxic and water-soluble, and our team conducts extensive clean-up after every event. We are committed to protecting the beaches we use and ensuring they are left clean and enjoyable for everyone. Environmental responsibility remains a priority for us, and we continuously look for ways to improve our sustainability efforts.”

Looking ahead, organisers say their ambition extends far beyond Jamaica.

The long-term vision is to establish Painted as the Caribbean’s premier paint festival, attracting international visitors while continuing to generate economic opportunities for Jamaica and showcasing the creativity, energy and cultural vibrancy of the region.

“Painted is more than an event,” Rowe said. “It is a platform that showcases the creativity, energy, and potential of Westmoreland. We are proud to contribute to the parish’s tourism, entertainment, and economic development while creating an experience that people remember long after the paint washes away.”