Jamaican Independence Day
Jamaican Independence Day is one of the BIGGEST days in Jamaican history – it marks Jamaica’s Independence from the United Kingdom, which was first granted on August 6th, 1962. It is now the National Day of Jamaica and is a huge celebration!
History of Jamaican Independence Day
On 6th August 1962, when the Jamaica Independence Act was passed by parliament, the Jamaican flag was flown for the first time. This was momentous for Jamaica, and, to this day, the 6th of August is marked by flag hoisting ceremonies!
Celebration of Jamaican Independence Day
Jamaican Independence Day is a massive celebration! It is celebrated by generations and is a national holiday in Jamaica. The days leading up to the 6th will showcase many exciting events and activities – because one day of celebrating is simply not enough!
The Jamaica festival was first organised in 1962 and has gotten bigger every year since! It starts off with the flag-raising ceremony to honour how far Jamaica has come and includes the Grand Gala where there are hundreds of performers and a vibrant float parade.
There’s also emancipation vigils, markets selling local produce, and traditional music to celebrate all things Jamaican. The festival is known to bring triumph and joy!
Jamaica is the only country in the world whose flag doesn’t include the colours red, white, or blue. The Jamaican flag is black and green with a yellow cross. The black represents the strength and creativity of the people, gold signifies natural wealth and sunlight, whilst green symbolises agricultural resources and hope.
