Kingston Parish Events

Kingston’s calendar is anchored by two national days a week apart, and by a year-round music scene.

Emancipation and Independence — 1 and 6 August

The two dates that frame the national week. Emancipation Day marks the ending of slavery in 1834 and is observed with a midnight vigil at Emancipation Park, drumming, and readings of the proclamation; it is reflective as much as celebratory, and was only restored as a public holiday in 1997. Independence Day on the 6th marks 1962 and is the opposite in tone: a grand gala at the National Stadium with dance, music and costume from every parish, a float parade, fireworks, and street parties across the city. The week between the two is Emancipendence, a continuous run of concerts, sound system dances and family events, and it is the best and busiest time to be in Kingston. Book accommodation well ahead and expect the city to be loud until dawn.

Carnival — April, after Easter

A Trinidad-style road march with costumed bands, soca trucks and a route through the uptown streets.

Bob Marley’s birthday — 6 February

Concerts, events at the museum and reggae across the city.

Reggae Month — February

The whole month is designated nationally, with lectures, symposia, concerts and open-air events across Kingston, much of it free and a good deal of it in the company of people who were in the studios when the records were made.

Sound system dances — weekly

Street dances in the neighbourhoods, each with its own night and following, and the most authentic music experience the city offers.