This August marks the return of Jamaica Arts & Music Summer (JAMS) Festival at Jamaica Avenue and Forest Hills Stadium.
Starting Friday, Aug. 5, the weekend will welcome attendees of all ages with live entertainment, art, shopping, resources and much more.
JAMS was started in 1996 by the JAMS Festival Planning Committee, made up of local organizations and residents. The festival celebrates the energy and diversity of Jamaica and the borough of Queens.
On Aug. 5, at 6 p.m. there will be an evening concert in Rufus King Park, Jamaica Avenue between 150th and 153rd streets. JAMS “Under The Stars” honors the legacies of jazz, R&B, hip-hop and gospel icons, many with origins in southeast Queen.
Saturday, Aug. 6, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., starting at Parson Boulevard to 170th Street, the Jamaica Arts & Music Summer (JAMS) Festival will begin. This is an unmissable event with food and merchandise from over 450 vendors. Additionally, if you’re looking for other ways to relax, catch a movie at the Jamaica Multiplex Cinema, which will be offering discounts for the entire weekend.
Some attractions include:
The Main Stage – 164th Street
At the heart of the festival is this eclectic blend of jazz, R&B, gospel, hip-hop and other genres by world-renowned local and international artists.
Antique Cars Exhibit – 161st Street
Appreciate some antique cars at the Queens Classic Car Club Exhibit, showcasing their classic vintage collections of Cadillac, Buick, Ford and Dodge cars.
Outdoor Photo Gallery/Artist Block – 165th Street (North)
Register for a gallery tour (at the Main Stage on 164th Street) featuring photographs by Nat Valentine, a renowned photojournalist dedicated to documenting southeast Queens. Hosted by Design Trust for Public Spaces.
Health & Wellness For the 50 & Up Club – 165th Street (South) sponsored by Healthfirst
Get screened while also having fun with exciting entertainment.
Kids Pavilion – 168th to 170th Streets
Unlock your inner superhero by heading over to the JAMS Superhero Kids Block. Activities include a rock climbing wall, bouncy houses, arts and crafts, a game truck and more.
Showcase Cinema Jamaica (Jamaica Multiplex)
Showcase Cinema will offer bargain-day priced tickets, discounts on food concessions — such as hot dogs and 16-ounce Icees for $2 each — and discounted Tuesday pricing for all shows. Special JAMS offers will run from Friday, Aug. 5, to Tuesday, Aug. 9. Starpass Bargain Pricing is only $5, Starpass is free and easy to join here.
There will also be raffles all day at the 164th Main Street Stage.
