Holidays

Holidays in Jamaica

Reggae, palm trees and Rastafarians who worship the former emperor of Ethiopia, Haile Selassie, as the reincarnation of Jesus Christ. Surely a host of exotic holidays should thrive in such soil. When you look at Jamaica’s holiday calendar, however, it seems quite familiar. Perhaps that’s because the Queen of England is still the official Jamaican head of state.

Overview

New Year – 01 January

Ash Wednesday – Flexible

Karif Friday – Flexible

Easter Monday – Flexible

Labor Day – May 22

Emancipation Day (Emancipation Day) – August 01

Independence Day – August 06

National Heroes Day – 3rd Monday in October

1st Christmas Day – December 25

2nd Christmas Day (Boxing Day) – December 26

Worth knowing about selected holidays

Easter

No colorful eggs, no Easter bunnies, but colorful parades everywhere. Easter in Jamaica primarily marks the beginning of Carnival. Everywhere there is live music, reggae has the island firmly in its grip. There is dancing, laughing and feasting. Especially the exotic fish dishes are very popular. The neighbours are presented with homemade fruit cakes.

Freedom Day from Slavery

An important day for the country, as the slave trade was also widespread in Jamaica. It would take until 1838 before it was finally banned on the island as well. The liberation day is celebrated festively. In many places the declaration of liberation is read out in public places and at midnight the church bells ring out.

Independence Day

Although Queen Elizabeth II is still the official head of state, Jamaica gained independence on 06 August 1962. The country has only been a free member of the Commonwealth since then.

Independence Day is celebrated in many places with large and colourful parades. It is very worthwhile to watch one of these parades.

National Heroes Day

Not one but seven national heroes who had a significant impact on Jamaican history are honored on this day. Jamaicans usually use the free hours to really enjoy themselves. They eat opulently, watch the latest cricket match on TV or play a round of dominoes. Surely the tourist will also find a parade or two or take the opportunity to attend a reggae concert.

Christmas

Even though it gets a little chilly at Christmas in Jamaica, reggae and tropical flair define the festivities. One special treat enjoyed at Christmastime is a drink made from the native plant Roselle. This is mixed with rum, Jamaican pepper, ginger and cloves. In keeping with English tradition, many families also have Christmas Pudding.

Christmas in Jamaica a more traditional celebration, celebrated entirely within the family circle.