Jamaicans absolutely love holidays, and who can blame us? It’s the perfect time to let loose, party, and have some fun.
We take full advantage of the holidays and hit the beaches, rivers, gather with family, and get down in some serious eating.
With a mix of religious, cultural, and historical significance, each holiday brings its own unique flair and customs that we all love.
If you want to know the public holidays of Jamaica in 2023, then keep on reading. I’ll also show you why holidays are so important in Jamaican culture!
Jamaican Holidays 2023: A Festive Guide to Culture and Traditions
Below is the list of 10 public holidays in Jamaica for 2023.
| Date | Day | Holiday |
| January 1st | Wednesday | New Year’s Day |
| February 22th | Wednesday | Ash Wednesday |
| April 7th | Friday | Good Friday |
| April 10th | Monday | Easter Monday |
| May 23rd | Tuesday | Labour Day |
| August 1st | Tuesday | Emancipation Day |
| August 6th (August 7th) | Sunday (Celebrated Monday) | Independence Day |
| October 16th | Monday | National Heroes’ Day |
| December 25th | Monday | Christmas Day |
| December 26th | Tuesday | Boxing Day |
New Year’s Day
Traditionally, Jamaicans ring in the New Year by attending church services and praying for blessings and guidance for the coming year. Then, they gather with friends and family to enjoy a delicious feast of Jamaican cuisine, including jerk chicken, rice and peas, and fried plantains. Of course, it’s also a time for drinks and music as they dance the night away.
If you want to learn more about how Jamaicans celebrate the New Year, be sure to check out our article “How Do Jamaicans Celebrate the New Year?”