Jamaicans at home and abroad are celebrating Emancipation Day today (August 1), a special day that marks the anniversary of the abolition of slavery in 1838.

The day was officially celebrated as a public holiday in 1893. It was, however, discontinued in 1962, when Jamaica gained independence.

Former Prime Minister of Jamaica, PJ Patterson, later re-instated Emancipation Day as a national holiday in 1997. Since then, it has been observed on August 1 of each year.

To commemorate Emancipation Day, Our Today has prepared a list of things you can do to celebrate this special day in our history.

Freedom Fair and Emancipation Fest

Celebrate Emancipation Day with your family at the Emancipation Park in Kingston at the Freedom Fair and Redemption Fest hosted by the Ministry of Culture and Entertainment.

The event will feature performances from kukudoo, Dwight Richards, Tivoli Dance Troupe, Nexus Performing Arts, Ardenne Lightening Drummers, Carey Sayles, Janet Crick, Rasheim Shepherd and others.

Admission is free!

Emancipation Jubilee

Join in the fun and celebration at this year’s Emancipation Jubilee, set to take place at Seville Heritage Park in St. Ann.

The event will commence on Wednesday (July 31) at 8:00 pm and is slated to end on Thursday (August 1) at 6:00 am. Among the highlights of the event are an artisan village, performances, fashion, and food.

Celebrate in your parish/community

While much of the fun and festivities are set to take place in Kingston and St Ann, you can celebrate Emancipation Day in your parish. Find out what events are being held in your ‘neck of the woods’ and join in on the fun and festivities. Make the most of the celebration by immersing yourself in the culture, food and music.

Beach/river trip!

The beach is always a great place to spend quality time with the family, so why not do so on Emancipation Day?

Fun Fest at Hope Gardens

Another great family event to attend this Emancipation Day is the annual family-friendly Fun Fest at Hope Gardens in Kingston.