Jamaican Christmas: Celebration of traditions and generosity

In Jamaica, Christmas is a vibrant, cherished season that intertwines tradition, community, and a deep sense of togetherness.

The celebrations start early, with families preparing their homes by painting and whitewashing street sides and tree trunks—a nostalgic nod to days gone by. The scent of sorrel brewing and fruits soaking for the traditional Christmas cake fills the air, setting the festive mood.

As December progresses, Christmas carols echo on all radio stations, and villages and towns burst into colour with displays of toys and decorations in town centres and plazas. However, the true highlight of the season is Christmas Eve, known as Grand Market. This bustling event sees everyone taking to the streets for last-minute shopping, music, and chatter filling the air. In some areas, you may encounter the Jonkonnu or masquerades, a captivating display of traditional dress and music parading through the towns, adding to the vibrant atmosphere.

Christmas Day itself is a quieter affair, reserved for family and close friends. The day begins with a hearty Christmas breakfast and culminates in a grand family dinner. Sharing is a significant part of the day, with many ensuring that neighbours are fed, embodying the spirit of community and generosity. As we celebrate, we are reminded: “May you have a wonderful Christmas, caring and sharing love.”

The day after Christmas, Boxing Day, carries its unique significance. Originating in the Middle Ages in England, it was a day when servants and tradespeople, after working on Christmas, were given the day off along with money and gifts for their families. This tradition was introduced to Jamaica during the colonial era when enslaved persons were granted gifts, money, and the rare opportunity to relax and gather with their loved ones. This practice gradually spread, becoming a day of celebration with drums, music, and dancing filling the streets, often accompanied by lively Jonkonnu performances.

MORE THAN SORREL AND GOOD CHEER

Today, Boxing Day in Jamaica is multifaceted. For some, it remains a day of giving and generosity, a time to share and extend kindness. For others, it’s a day to unwind, often spent on beach trips or visiting relatives and friends out of town. The essence of the day is captured in the sentiment: When you give of yourself, it is true giving. Your actions are golden when you reach out with encouraging words and unselfish thoughts.

Christmas in Jamaica is a testament to the resilience and creativity of the Jamaican people. It is a time to cherish traditions, connect with loved ones, and celebrate the spirit of giving and togetherness.

This Christmas season, let us remember the true meaning of the holidays – love, compassion, and sharing. Let us reach out to those in need, offer words of encouragement, and embrace the spirit of giving with open hearts.

References:

• Jamaican Christmas Traditions

• The Significance of Boxing Day

• Jonkonnu: A Jamaican Tradition

Contributed by Dr Lorenzo Gordon, a diabetologist, internal medicine consultant, biochemist, and a history and heritage enthusiast. Send feedback to inspiring876@gmail.com.