Jamaica (JM)
Reggae rhythms, stunning beaches, and a vibrant English-speaking culture make Jamaica the Caribbean's most iconic destination.
Capital: Kingston
Region: Americas
Language: English
Currency: JMD (J$)
Cost of living: Affordable (index 45)
Emergency: 119
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Public Holidays 2026
13 holidays in Jamaica. Some may vary by region.
January 2026
Thu 1
New Year's Day Public Holiday
New Year's Day
Tue 6
Accompong Maroon Festival Optional
Accompong Maroon Festival
Cultural celebration in St. Elizabeth marking the Maroon peace treaty of 1739. Not a national holiday but widely observed in Maroon communities.
February 2026
Wed 18
Ash Wednesday Optional
Ash Wednesday
Not a public holiday but widely observed in Catholic and some Protestant communities.
Fri 6
Bob Marley Birthday Optional
Bob Marley Birthday
Major cultural observance with concerts and events. Not a public holiday.
April 2026
Fri 3
Good Friday Public Holiday
Good Friday
Banks, government offices and many businesses close. Church services held island-wide. Beach trips popular on this day.
Mon 6
Easter Monday Public Holiday
Easter Monday
Government offices and banks closed. Family outings and beach trips common.
May 2026
Sat 23
National Labour Day Public Holiday
National Labour Day
Community service day — Jamaicans traditionally spend Labour Day cleaning and improving their neighbourhoods. Government and many offices close. Falls on Saturday in 2026 — substitute observed Monday May 25.
Mon 25
National Labour Day (substitute) Public Holiday
National Labour Day (observed)
Substitute public holiday for Labour Day (May 23 falls on Saturday in 2026) — observed Monday May 25.
August 2026
Sat 1
Emancipation Day Public Holiday
Emancipation Day
Commemorates the abolition of slavery in 1838. Culturally very significant. Often combined with Independence Day for a long weekend. Concerts and events nationwide.
Thu 6
Independence Day Public Holiday
Independence Day
Jamaica's independence from Britain on 6 August 1962. Grand Gala at the National Stadium in Kingston. Fireworks, concerts and patriotic events island-wide.
October 2026
Mon 19
National Heroes Day Public Holiday
National Heroes Day
Third Monday of October. Honours Jamaica's seven National Heroes: Marcus Garvey, Paul Bogle, George William Gordon, Nanny of the Maroons, Sam Sharpe, Norman Manley and Alexander Bustamante.
December 2026
Fri 25
Christmas Day Public Holiday
Christmas Day
Most important holiday. Families gather for Grand Market, Christmas dinner (ham, gungo peas and rice, sorrel drink). Streets bustle on Christmas Eve.
Sat 26
Boxing Day Public Holiday
Boxing Day
Bank holiday. Outdoor concerts and parties. Many Jamaicans visit beaches or attend local fairs.
Note: Some holidays in Jamaica apply only to specific regions or states. Check local regulations for your area.