August 6th Celebrations

Jamaica Independence Day

It was on August 6th, 1962 that Jamaica become a fully independent nation, no longer a British colony.  Compared to Switzerland, which declared independence in 1291, Jamaica is a very young nation that Jamaicans are proud of.  Not surprisingly, Jamaicans here in Switzerland and across the world get together to celebrate the nation’s birthday.

 Independence Day is marked by week of celebrations that starts on August 1st, Emancipation Day.  The days between these two public holidays is an opportunity for fun loving Jamaicans to hold week-long parties. One of the best-known is Dream Weekend in Negril.

 It is also a time for family picnics and outings.  Through the Jamaica Cultural Development Commission (JCDC) a variety of cultural events are held to showcase talented artists. Some of the annual events include:

•    Independence Day Villages in Kingston and Montego Bay with street parades, display booths and the range of leisure activities for all ages.
•    Beauty pageants and the national festival queen coronation.
•    Regional Festival Galas with cultural performances  
 
To learn more about August 6th Celebrations go to:

PATHE- Jamaica's Independence: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BzAZ7v1z-8o

Caribbean Travel Blog: https://www.caribbeantravel.com/blog/hot-news/jamaica-independence-day-celebrations-a-parade-of-black-green--gold

JIS Birth of a Nation: https://jis.gov.jm/information/independence/

Also visit our art gallery:  https://www.experiencejamaique.com/product_gallery

Updated May 2020