Craft Markets in Jamaica

A guide to Craft Markets in Jamaica

According to several website blogs on craft markets in Jamaica, it is the place to
- sit and watch our master craftsmen create beautiful works of art right before you,
- purchase hand-made souvenirs made by local craftsmen,
- meet and interact with our local craftsmen and entertainers and get insists into their creative process,
- enjoy our world-renowned local cuisine such as jerk chicken or fish and bammy,
- hear, see and interact with pieces of the local culture and history.
A total immersive experience in Jamaica’s local cultures, or at least a part of it.

 Jamaican artisans form the backbone of the craft industry, as most souvenirs are made by them and proudly displayed at craft markets.  Through the years the craft items have changed in part due to the government sponsored training to modernize and raise the standard of the products. During the 1980s the government concentrated on the development of indigenous craft industry. At that time many craft items produced by artisans from small rural villages, were purchased and resold nationally and internationally by Things Jamaica Ltd. 

This policy has continued, though not always with the same level of commitment and resources. Nonetheless, craft markets and the industry behind them are important for the livelihoods of many Jamaicans.  In 2020 there were almost 700 registered traders at craft markets managed by the Urban Development Corporation across the island. Like many other sectors of the tourist industry, due to the COVID pandemic leading to a downturn in visitor arrivals has meant a loss of income for these traders. Despite this slump many remain hopeful that craft markets will experience a rebound.

 If you are in Kingston, take some time to visit Kingston Craft Market near the waterfront, close to Kingston’s old town.  There you will find a wide array of craft items and artisans who make some of these souvenir items. This is one of the oldest craft markets in Jamaica. Here are a few tips on how to make the most of this visit from Culture Trip 

On the north coast where most visitors stay there are two large craft markets in Ocho Rios, Dunn’s River and Pineapple Craft markets. In Montego Bay craft items can be found everywhere including several hotels and the airport’s waiting lounge.  But there is only one craft market for the total immersive experience described above, the Harbour Street Craft and Cultural Village

At Jamaica’s western point, Negril you will find Rutland Point Craft Market which as a modest, but useful website link that provides information on the vendors, their booths and craft items.

  If you miss the chance to visit a craft market, peruse the duty-free craft stores at the international airports in Kingston and Montego Bay before you leave.
 
Also visit our gallery for contemporary Jamaican/Caribbean fine art: EJ Gallery

May 2022