Photo: Derrick Scott
Organiser of the ‘Winternational’ global embassy showcase, Jan Du Plain (second left), shares a photo opportunity at Jamaica’s booth with members of staff from the Embassy of Jamaica in Washington, D.C. (from left) Counsellor, Brittany McCrea; Community Relations Officer, Emile Wallace Waddell; and Minister Counsellor for Trade, Alicia Taylor. The event was held recently at the Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center in downtown Washington, D.C.
Photo: Derrick Scott
Jamaica’s booth at ‘Winternational’, Washington, D.C.’s global embassy showcase, was abuzz as visitors sampled authentic Jamaican beef patties, Blue Mountain Coffee, and delectable rum cake. The event was held recently at the Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center in downtown Washington, D.C. Guests are assisted by Embassy of Jamaica staff members, Kasceme Blackwood, and Minister Counsellor for Trade, Alicia Taylor; and Jamaica Tourist Board (JTB) Business Development Officer for the Northeast USA, Ricardo Henry.
Photo: Derrick Scott
Secretary of the District of Columbia, Kimberly A. Bassett (third left), receives a gift from Jamaica Tourist Board (JTB) Business Development Officer for the Northeast USA, Ricardo Henry (second right), after touring Jamaica’s booth at the ‘Winternational’ global embassy showcase. The event was held recently at the Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center in downtown Washington, D.C. Looking on (from left) are Embassy of Jamaica representatives: Counsellor, Brittany McCrea; Community Relations Officer, Emile Wallace Waddell; Minister Counsellor for Trade Alicia Taylor, and staff member, Kasceme Blackwood.
The Full Story
Jamaica emerged as a standout presence during the recent staging of ‘Winternational’, Washington, D.C.’s largest international embassy showcase, captivating thousands with an immersive celebration of culture, cuisine, and tourism.
The high‑profile event welcomed more than 8,000 guests and convened representatives from over 70 embassies and cultural organisations at the Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center in downtown Washington, D.C.
Through its vibrant exhibits, Jamaica offered visitors a dynamic showcase reflecting the island’s rich heritage and global influence.
Guests were greeted with authentic Jamaican beef patties, Blue Mountain Coffee, and indulgent samples of delectable rum cake.
They also engaged with displays showcasing Jamaica’s culture and creativity, including paintings by New York-based Jamaican artist, Cheery Josephs.
Representatives of the Jamaica Tourist Board (JTB), which collaborated with the Embassy of Jamaica, were on hand to promote the island as a diverse and welcoming tourist destination.
“Winternational provides a unique platform for Jamaica to share our story with the world,” said Jamaica’s Ambassador to the United States, His Excellency Major General (ret’d) Antony Anderson.
“Jamaica’s participation was crucial, as following the passage of Hurricane Melissa, it is imperative that we let visitors know that Jamaica is open… and that the best way to support our recovery is to come for their usual visits,” he added.
The island’s presence resonated strongly with attendees throughout the day, as the Showcase transformed the venue into a vibrant global marketplace of culture and creativity.
While guests explored exhibits from around the world, Jamaica’s showcase drew consistent interest for its authentic flavors, welcoming atmosphere, and interactive presentations — including selfies with a life‑size image of world‑renowned King of Reggae, Robert Nesta ‘Bob’ Marley.
The event also underscored Jamaica’s active role within Washington’s diplomatic community.
Winternational opened with a private reception attended by ambassadors and senior diplomatic representatives, followed by the presentation of a Mayoral Proclamation officially declaring ‘Winternational Day’ in Washington, D.C. — a recognition of the event’s growing significance as a platform for public diplomacy.
The event is produced by the International Trade Center and hosted at the Ronald Reagan Building, with support from corporate, cultural, and media partners committed to advancing international dialogue, trade, and cultural understanding.
Last Updated: December 29, 2025
