Charleston Caribbean Jerk Festival

2025 will mark the 10th annual installment of a spirited but family-friendly festival that celebrates Caribbean food, music, and culture. 

The term “jerk” (in this context!) refers to a method of cooking plus a blend of seasonings that developed around Boston Bay in Portland, Jamaica.  Basically it began with meat from game like wild hogs, carefully marinated in spicy scotch bonnet peppers and an array of special spices.  Then it was slowly roasted and smoked in an earthen pit till tender and infused with the heat and flavors of the seasoning.

Jerk style cooking soon spread beyond wild game to chicken, seafood like shrimp, vegetables, and just about anything that can be marinated and roasted.  And no longer confined to Jamaica, you can now find it around the globe.  And on a Saturday in July, you'll find it celebrated right here in the Lowcountry.  

Chefs from around the Southeast will vie for the title of Top Jerk Chef 2025  -  so come hungry!  Musical headliner will be Wayne Wonder.

The festival will take place on a summer Saturday in scenic Riverfront Park in North Charleston from 3:00 p.m till 10:00 p.m.  Early Bird Admission is just $10 a person, and regular admission is $20; tickets and merch can be purchased on the website, or find tickets on Eventbrite.

NOTE: Date and details for 2025 are tentative.  Check back closer to the event for the latest info.