Festival is a beloved Jamaican side dish known for its slightly sweet taste, golden crust, and soft, doughy center. Made from a simple blend of cornmeal, flour, sugar, and a touch of spice, the dough is shaped and fried until beautifully crisp on the outside and tender on the inside, creating the perfect balance of texture and flavour.
This humble yet iconic fritter has roots in Jamaica’s street food culture, often served alongside savory dishes to add a hint of sweetness. Over the years, Festival has made its way from roadside cookshops to home kitchens and restaurant tables, cherished by Jamaicans of all ages.
Traditionally, Festival is served with Jamaican fried fish, especially escovitch snapper, but it’s also a favourite with jerk chicken, ackee and saltfish, or enjoyed on its own as a quick snack.
Unusual fact: Despite its name, Festival isn't reserved for holidays or special events—locals say it got its name because it's just that good, like a festival in your mouth!
Crispy, comforting, and unmistakably Jamaican, Festival is a side dish that always brings a smile.
When I first migrated to Canada, cooking wasn't really my thing. But the longing for the rich flavors of home—and the reality of feeding a household of six—pushed me to learn how to make quick, easy Jamaican meals with just a few simple ingredients. Over time, cooking became more than a necessity—it became a joy.
Like a true Jamaican, my favorite part of cooking is sharing meals and seeing the happiness they bring to others. Even better? Inviting others into my kitchen—especially those who believed Jamaican food was too hard to make—and showing them how easy and fun it can be.
Now, I want to share that same experience with you and your loved ones, right in the comfort of your own home. Let's bring the joy of authentic Jamaican cooking to your kitchen, one simple, delicious meal at a time.
