Fifty-seven years after Jamaica became independent we have achieved some major milestones worth celebrating. And you know we know how to do that! With Emancipation Day so close to Independence (August 1 & 6) there are scores of events in these two holiday weeks for you to plan a trip with your friends and family, visit somewhere new and learn more about the Jamaican story. Below are a few worth attending this Emancipendence season.
Emancipation Jubilee - July 31st
On the eve of independence, the National Heritage Trust will introduce a rich cultural experience to Jamaicans. At 6:00 pm, the grounds of the Seville Heritage Park will come to life with displays of what the country was like before emancipation. This event will take you on a historical journey with music, dance, food and artifacts from the time of the Taino, the Spaniards and the slaves. 
JCDC Miss Festival Queen Coronation - August 1
The 2019 staging of the Miss Festival Queen Pageant is also an entertaining way to spend your Emancipation evening. Enjoy the 11 beautiful young ladies competing for the crown by showcasing their love for country, cultural awareness and passion for nation-building 
Grand Gala- August 6
This is the largest independence celebration. While it is usually televised, many prefer to feel the vibe in the stadium. Thousands of patriotic Jamaicans and delegates will come together to enjoy an evening filled with musical performances from reggae icons, Jamaica’s best dance troupes and spectacular fireworks.
Montego Bay Jerk Festival -August 1
Once it's jerked, it must be delicious right? Stop by Catherine Hall on Emancipation Day with your family for a day of food, fun and frolic. This event will also keep you entertained, with live performances by Ity and Fancy Cat, Jabez and Joan Flemming. One feature that is likely to draw intense interest is the popular celebrity cook-off. 
The Ocho Rios Seafood Festival- August 6
Seafood lovers will be in their ackee at this sumptuous annual event. Imagine being able to taste food from all your favorite local seafood vendors in one place. Take the whole family to the Turtle River Park, which will host at least two dozen seafood stalls, a kids’ fun zone and several musical performances. 
Denbigh Agricultural Show - August 4-6
An enduring feature of our Emancipendence holiday is the largest showcase for the nation’s farmers, the Denbigh Agricultural Show. This celebrated two-day event allows us to gain a deeper understanding of how our food is produced locally. Denbigh Agricultural is also a great event to see developments in Jamaican livestock. What makes the event even more interesting are the National Farm Queen pageant and the National Champion Farmer competitions.