The Jamaica Cultural Development Commission (JCDC), an agency of the Ministry of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport, invites the public to the Semi Finals of the Jamaica Festival Song Competition, taking place on Saturday, May 16, 2026, at the Ranny Williams Entertainment Centre, 36 Hope Road, Kingston 10. The event begins at 6:00 p.m. and admission is FREE.

The road to the Top Ten continues as gifted artists from across the island take the stage, each vying for the coveted opportunity to advance to the Grand Finals. The Semi Finals represent one of the most electrifying stages of the competition, as performers bring their original compositions to life before a live audience and a panel of distinguished judges.

The Jamaica Festival Song Competition is one of the nation’s most celebrated cultural traditions, serving as a cornerstone of Jamaica’s Independence Festival celebrations. Now in its 2026 edition, the competition continues to champion original Jamaican music, spotlighting the creativity, talent, and patriotic spirit that define the island’s rich cultural heritage.

Members of the public are encouraged to come out, support Jamaica’s emerging and established artists, and experience the music carrying the Festival Song tradition proudly forward. Again, entrance to the event is completely free of charge.