Run-A-Boat: A Day of Jamaican Culture, Food, Fun, and Family Vibes

The Jamaican Women of Florida (JWOF) hosted their highly anticipated Run-A-Boat event; this year, it was bigger and better than ever! This year’s event was a resounding success, drawing over 600 attendees who enjoyed a day filled with authentic Jamaican cuisine, lively music, and family-friendly activities.

A Taste of Jamaica!

From jerk pork, jerk chicken and curry chicken to fish done Jamaican style, the spread was nothing less than a Jamaican feast. You could smell the jerk sizzling from a mile away, and the flavor didn’t disappoint. And for those with a sweet tooth, there was no shortage of decadent desserts—from rich Jamaican rum cake to sweet potato pudding, coconut drop, gizzada, and other sweet treats. Every bite was like a trip to the island. In addition to the delicious food, attendees enjoyed refreshing natural Jamaican juices such as peanut punch and soursop juice. And for a taste of authentic Jamaica, there was jelly coconut and sugar cane.

Fun for the Kiddies!

The event was not just for the grown-ups. The Kiddies Corner was buzzing with excitement, and parents were thrilled to see their little ones having a blast while learning about Jamaican culture. The kids had the chance to play classic Jamaican games like Dandy Shandy and Chinese Skip Rope, where they got to jump and laugh with each other. And for the younger ones? Face painting and balloon art entertained them while waiting for their turn on the pony rides. It was heartwarming to see the next generation enjoying the same traditions and games many of us grew up with in Jamaica.

Vendors, Vibes, and More!

The event wasn’t just about food and games; there was a great selection of vendors showcasing all kinds of Jamaican-inspired products. From clothing, jewelry, and handmade crafts to skincare products and art, there was something for everyone to take home. Plus, it was an excellent opportunity to support local businesses, all while soaking up the amazing vibes and connecting with the community.

Keeping the Energy High!

Of course, no Jamaican event would be complete without the music! The day was brought to life by the energetic emcee Raul Blaze, who kept the vibes going. From start to finish, he made sure there was never a dull moment. And then, there was DJ Radcliffe, who had the crowd moving all day with the best in Jamaican music—from reggae and dancehall to ska and soca. If you weren’t on your feet, you definitely nodded to the rhythm!

Whether you came for the food, the music, or just to enjoy a day out with the family, Run-A-Boat was an unforgettable celebration of Jamaica. The laughter, the dancing, the togetherness—moments like these remind us of the importance of staying connected to our roots, no matter how far from home we might be.

We can’t wait for next year, and we hope to see you all there. If you haven’t yet experienced Run-A-Boat, mark your calendars for next year’s event—you won’t want to miss it!

Until next time, keep the spirit of Jamaica alive wherever you are!