This Saturday 6 December, from 11am–9pm, Seaworks in Williamstown will explode with colour, bass, and the smell of jerk on the grill as the Jamaican Music & Food Festival (JMFF) takes over the waterfront.
If you’ve been thinking about it but haven’t hit “buy tickets” yet, here are 9 big reasons you should be there – one for every year this iconic celebration has been bringing Jamaican vibes to Melbourne.
1. It’s the ultimate Jamaican day out in Australia
JMFF isn’t just another food truck round-up – it’s recognised as one of Australia’s leading celebrations of Jamaican culture and music, drawing huge crowds every summer.
For nearly a decade, it’s been the day where reggae lovers, foodies, families and curious first-timers all come together under one banner: good music, good food, good vibes.
2. A full day of reggae, dancehall, dub & ska
From the moment gates open, you’re wrapped in a wall of sound – reggae, dancehall, dub, ska and more pumping from massive sound systems all day long.
The 2025 line-up brings together international guests and home-grown heroes, with artists like Little Lion Sound, Badda General, MC Manaki, Bart Willoughby, Sub Tribe and Ska Vendors in the mix – plus plenty more still to discover on the day.
If you love bass, big choruses and sing-along anthems, this is your happy place.
3. Serious Jamaican & Caribbean food (come hungry)
Let’s be real – you’re coming partly for the food.
Expect the full spread of classics like jerk chicken, curry goat, fried plantain, patties and more, cooked by some of Melbourne’s best Jamaican and Caribbean food vendors.
It’s the kind of food that makes you close your eyes after the first bite. Grab a plate, a cold drink, and eat with your hands – exactly how it should be.
4. The perfect waterfront summer location
Seaworks Maritime Precinct in Williamstown is a dream festival spot – open air, by the bay, with city skyline views and fresh sea breeze to keep you cool while you dance and eat.
It feels like a mini island escape without leaving Melbourne.
5. Family-friendly and welcoming to everyone
JMFF is proudly an all-ages event – kids, aunties, uncles, friend groups, dates, everyone. Past editions have featured kids’ activities, drumming, and plenty of space for families to spread out, relax and enjoy the day together.
So whether you’re rolling in with a pram or a crew of mates, you’ll feel right at home.
6. Culture that goes beyond the stage
It’s not just about who’s on the mic. The festival weaves in live art, dance showcases, island markets, and pop-up cultural experiences, so there’s always something happening in every corner of the site.
Browse stalls, watch dancers light up the floor, discover local creatives, and soak up the full spectrum of Jamaican and Caribbean culture.
7. Nearly a decade of real community & history
The Jamaican Music & Food Festival first launched in 2016 and has grown into the heart and soul of Melbourne’s summer reggae season, founded to bring an authentic slice of Jamaican culture to Australia.
After nine summers of vibes, the festival has built a loyal community and a serious reputation – this isn’t a one-off experiment, it’s a loved and proven party that keeps levelling up every year. Some event promos even proudly call it “summer’s biggest Jamaican event in Australia, 9 years running.
When you buy a ticket, you’re not just going to a gig – you’re plugging into a living story.
8. Easy day out, great value
- When: Saturday 6 December 2025, 11am–9pm
- Where: Seaworks Maritime Precinct, 82 Nelson Place, Williamstown
- Tickets: General tickets are around $45–$65, with family bundles and concessions available, so you can bring the whole crew without breaking the bank.
Williamstown is a quick trip from the city, with public transport options and plenty of nearby spots to continue the night once the festival ends.
9. Because this year is special – and you’ll want to say you were there
After nine years of building something unique in Australia – flying in global talent, championing local artists, feeding thousands and uplifting community – JMFF 2025 is set to be one of the most memorable editions yet.
There’s nothing like being able to say, “Yeah, I was there when the place went off that year.”
Ready to feel the island vibes?
One day. One bay-side venue. One massive celebration of Jamaican music, food and culture.
If you’ve been waiting for a sign to grab your tickets – this is it. Rally your friends, sort your outfit, and lock in your spot at the Jamaican Music & Food Festival this Saturday.
When the bass drops and the smoke from the jerk grills hits the air, you’ll be very glad you came.
https://www.jmff.com.au/