• MAJOR HOLIDAYS
Jamaicans celebrate their independence on August sixth. For several weeks beforehand, they stage a huge celebration called "Festival!" During this period artists of all types perform, many as part of competitions. School children also are involved in the festivities. This helps foster their sense of national pride and tradition.
Jonkanoo (John Canoe) is a dancing procession held around Christmastime. The origins of this celebration are not clear, but many believe its origins to be in East Africa. Celebrants wearing extravagant costumes dance to the music of drums and cane flutes.