Festival Celebrates Jamaican Culture, Cuisine and Community While Supporting Scholarships and Empowerment Programs
TAMARAC, FL — The sights, sounds and flavors of Jamaica will come alive in South Florida as Jamaican Women of Florida (JWOF) prepares to host its 2026 Run-A-Boat Culture & Food Festival on Saturday, November 14, from 3 to 9 p.m. at Tamarac Park.
Presented in partnership with the City of Tamarac, the annual celebration promises an exciting blend of authentic Jamaican cuisine, live entertainment, cultural traditions, and family-friendly activities, all while raising funds to support education, mentorship, and community empowerment.
This year’s entertainment lineup will feature a special appearance by internationally acclaimed Jamaican reggae artist Etana, a live musical performance by Melixxa, and the return of popular Caribbean entertainer Raul Blaze, who will serve as the festival’s host.
Known for her powerful vocals and meaningful contributions to reggae music, Etana brings international recognition to the celebration. Melixxa is expected to energize the crowd with her vibrant performance, while Raul Blaze will keep festivalgoers entertained with his signature humor and engaging stage presence.
But beyond the music, Run-A-Boat represents something deeply rooted in Jamaican heritage: the tradition of bringing people together through food, fellowship and shared experiences.
The festival takes its name from the Jamaican custom of “running a boat,” in which friends, relatives and neighbors pool their resources to prepare and enjoy a communal meal. That spirit of togetherness remains at the heart of the celebration.
Food lovers will have an opportunity to sample a variety of authentic Jamaican and Caribbean dishes prepared by participating vendors. From traditional island favorites to creative culinary specialties, the festival will showcase the rich flavors that have made Jamaican cuisine popular around the world.
Adding to the excitement, organizers are introducing the Run-A-Boat People’s Choice Awards, allowing attendees to recognize outstanding food vendors in three categories: Fan Favorite, Best Jamaican Dish and Best Jamaican Dessert.
The competition is designed to encourage community participation while highlighting the culinary creativity and talents of local entrepreneurs.
The celebration will extend beyond food and music with a Cultural Corner featuring special guest Steve Higgins. This attraction will offer festivalgoers an opportunity to experience and appreciate Jamaica’s rich history, traditions and cultural heritage.
An artisan marketplace will showcase local businesses, vendors and entrepreneurs, providing opportunities for shopping and supporting small businesses. Families attending the festival can also enjoy a free Kids Zone featuring activities and entertainment for children.
For JWOF, however, the festival is about much more than a day of entertainment.
It is a celebration with a purpose.
Proceeds from the event will benefit the organization’s scholarship programs and community initiatives, which focus on education, mentorship, leadership development and empowering women and girls of Jamaican descent in Florida and Jamaica.
Through these efforts, JWOF continues to demonstrate how cultural pride and community service can work together to create meaningful opportunities for future generations.
The partnership with the City of Tamarac also reflects the growing cultural diversity of South Florida and the importance of providing spaces where residents from different backgrounds can gather, celebrate their heritage and strengthen community relationships.
As anticipation builds for this year’s festival, organizers are encouraging residents throughout Broward, Miami-Dade and Palm Beach counties to come out and experience an afternoon and evening of Jamaican hospitality, cultural pride and entertainment.
The 2026 Run-A-Boat Culture & Food Festival will take place at Tamarac Park, 7501 North University Drive, Tamarac, FL 33321.
Admission is $20 in advance and $25 at the gate. Children under age 10 will be admitted free, and parking is complimentary.
Tickets are available at https://JWOFRunABoat.eventbrite.com.
Jamaican Women of Florida is a nonprofit organization committed to empowering women and girls through education, mentorship, leadership and community service. Its programs promote Jamaican heritage, strengthen community connections and provide scholarships and opportunities for personal and professional advancement.
For additional information about the organization and its programs, visit www.jamaicanwomenofflorida.com.
For one special Saturday, Tamarac will become a gathering place for the tastes, sounds and spirit of Jamaica, reminding everyone that when a community comes together, the benefits can extend far beyond the celebration itself.
