In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, yellow cornmeal, granulated sugar, baking powder, salt, and ground nutmeg until evenly combined.

Add the cold cubed butter to the dry ingredients and use your fingertips to rub it into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.

Gradually pour in the cold water, stirring with a fork until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms. Knead the dough gently in the bowl for about 1 minute until it comes together and becomes smooth.

Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces, then roll each piece between your palms into an oval, sausage-like shape with slightly tapered ends.

Heat the vegetable oil in a deep skillet over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C), or until a small piece of dough sizzles immediately when dropped in.

Carefully lower the dough shapes into the hot oil and fry in batches for 6 to 8 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are deep golden brown and cooked through.

Remove the festivals with a slotted spoon and drain them on a plate lined with paper towels. Serve them warm alongside jerk chicken, fried fish, or escovitch fish for a classic Jamaican meal.