Emancipation Day
Nationwide public holiday in Jamaica
Dates
| Year | Date | Weekday | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | 1 August | Saturday | Nationwide |
| 2027 | 1 August | Sunday | Nationwide |
| 2027 | 2 August | Monday | Emancipation Day (observed) Observed day off for Emancipation Day (Sun 1 Aug) |
Observed days are days off given instead of, or as well as, the holiday's own date, for example when it falls on a weekend or the law moves it to a Monday.
Where it applies
Everywhere in Jamaica.
Is it a day off?
Yes. It is an official public holiday, so most employees have the day off. Government offices, schools and many businesses are usually closed; shops, restaurants and public transport may keep reduced hours. Check local announcements for opening times.
Make it longer
Sat 31 Jul – Mon 2 Aug is a 3-day weekend with no leave needed.
Plan more breaks with the leave planner.
Typical weather in Kingston around 1 August: high 30°C (86°F), low 27°C (80°F), rain on 59% of days.
Averages for 2015–2024, 3 days either side of the date, for the area around Kingston. Past averages, not a forecast.
Forecast for Sunday 1 August in Kingston: (MET Norway)
Coming up next in Jamaica
Friday, 6 August 2027
Emancipation Day in other countries
Bahamas
Barbados
Belize
Bermuda
Cayman Islands
Dominica
Grenada
Montserrat
Puerto Rico
Saint Kitts and Nevis
Saint Lucia
Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
More for Jamaica
Holiday dates are for general information and can change. Official government announcements take precedence.