Calabash Festival: Jamaica's literary gem off the beaten path

Every other year the rustic Treasure Beach community on the south coast of Jamaica transforms into a vibrant focal point for literary enthusiasts through the Calabash International Literary Festival. This jewel of Jamaican culture created in 2001 by novelist Colin Channer; poet Kwame Dawes; and filmmaker and writer Justine Henzell, is more than just a festival. It’s an immersive Jamaican experience.

Far from major population centres and major tourism resorts, the close-knit community of Treasure Beach is the charm at the heart of this convergence of Jamaican and international literary influences. The festival has played host to the likes of Booker Prize winner Marlon James from Jamaica, Nobel Prize winner Derek Walcott from Saint Lucia, the acclaimed winner of three Booker awards Salman Rushdie and a long line of accomplished Jamaican, Caribbean and international authors and poets.

Over three captivating days, Calabash offers a unique mosaic of readings, music, interviews, open-mic sessions and storytelling to the crowds gathered from sunrise to sunset to witness the talent on display. The festival’s free and open format cultivates a communal celebration of literature bringing both local and international visitors together.

The vibe is often described as earthy, reflecting the country atmosphere of this farming region which meets the Caribbean Sea at the idyllic Treasure Beach. It reaffirms the natural beauty of sea and sand that has brought millions to Jamaica while dispelling the myth that the island is only about all-inclusive hotels and busy resorts.

The average tourist often only scratches the surface of the island but events like Calabash take you under the skin to the country’s heart and soul. And also its personality. Because the mood at Calabash is relaxed and laid-back which you might not expect at an event of this nature. There is the laughter, the music and the endearing loudness that characterises Jamaican culture. And everyone’s casual attire reflects the easy-going mood.

The journey from your hotel in Kingston to Treasure Beach is approximately two and a half hours through the southern parishes of Jamaica. Along the way you will pass through farmland, towns, plains and hills that paint another picture of Jamaica, vastly different from the popular north coast but no less captivating.

The Calabash International Literary Festival Trust produces the event and also organises publishing seminars and writing workshops.

Check http://calabashfestival.org/ for information on festival dates. We encourage you to inquire at the front desk of the hotel for additional information about travel and accommodation options in the Treasure Beach area if you are planning to attend the festival or just experience the area. Our hotel staff will be delighted to assist you.