Jamaica

Jamaica : Public Holidays and Bank Holidays 2025 2026 2027

Public Holidays in Jamaica

Jamaica celebrates a variety of public holidays that reflect its rich cultural heritage, history, and religious traditions. These holidays often come with unique customs, community events, and time for family gatherings. Many holidays mark significant historical milestones or religious observances important to the Jamaican people.

• New Year's Day
  Celebrated on January 1st, this day marks the beginning of the new year. It is a time for reflection, making resolutions, and celebrating with family and friends. Events often include fireworks and parties.

• Ash Wednesday
  This Christian holy day occurs 46 days before Easter Sunday and signifies the start of Lent. People attend church services where ashes are placed on their foreheads as a sign of repentance.

• Good Friday
  Observed during Holy Week on the Friday before Easter, it commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. Many Jamaicans attend church services and observe fasting and solemn reflection.

• Easter Monday
  The day after Easter Sunday, marked by family gatherings, picnics, and various recreational activities as a celebration of Jesus's resurrection.

• National Labour Day
  Celebrated on May 23rd, it honors the contributions of Jamaican workers and the labor movement. Parades, speeches, and community events highlight workers' rights and achievements.

• National Labour Day (observed)
  When Labour Day falls on a weekend, the observance shifts to the following Monday to allow for public recognition.

• Emancipation Day
  Held on August 1st, this day commemorates the abolition of slavery in the British Empire in 1834. It is marked by cultural events, music, and reflections on freedom and heritage.

• Emancipation Day (observed)
  If August 1st falls on a Sunday, the holiday is observed on the following Monday.

• Independence Day
  Celebrated on August 6th, this holiday marks Jamaica’s independence from the United Kingdom in 1962. Festivities include parades, patriotic displays, and cultural performances.

• National Heroes Day
  Observed on the third Monday of October, it honors Jamaica’s national heroes for their contributions to the country’s development and freedom. Ceremonies and tributes are common.

• Christmas Day
  Celebrated on December 25th, it honors the birth of Jesus Christ. Jamaican Christmas traditions include festive food, music, and gift-giving.

• Boxing Day
  The day after Christmas, December 26th, is a public holiday often spent relaxing or taking part in sporting events and shopping sales.

• Boxing Day (observed)
  If Boxing Day falls on a Sunday, the holiday is observed on the following Monday so people can enjoy the day off.

Official Reference Site

• Government of Jamaica - Public Holidays