The Jamaica Cultural Development Commission (JCDC) was established in 1963 as the Festival Office of Jamaica and later evolved into the Festival Commission in 1968, following the passage of Act 32 of 1968. This Act expanded its mandate to promote the annual Independence Anniversary Celebrations and to nurture local talent across the island. In 1980, through Act No. 8 of 1980, the organization was renamed the Jamaica Cultural Development Commission, marking a significant broadening of its functions and responsibilities.

Today, the JCDC plays a leading role in preserving, developing, and promoting Jamaica’s cultural heritage and creative expression. Guided by its mission to influence national development positively by unearthing, developing, preserving, and promoting the creative talents and cultural expressions of the Jamaican people, the Commission continues to celebrate and advance Brand Jamaica on the global stage.