For many children, buying balloons was an annual undertaking at Christmas time at small community shops. Shop keepers would mount a packet of over a hundred balloons of varying sizes and, for a small price, a child could scratch a card for the chance to get a balloon. There was one balloon in the packet that was much bigger than...

Christmas carols bring their own flavour to the season. Over the years, many local artistes have recorded carols.  Some are traditional lyrics remixed against the reggae beat, while others have been original compositions, both lyrics and music. Some of the popular Jamaican Christmas songs and their artistes are listed here.  Be sure to share your favourites with your family and...

The National Pantomime has been in existence since 1941, having premiered on Boxing Day (December 26) at the Ward Theatre. The Pantomime usually opens from Boxing Day through to May of the following year. This annual production is a colourful display of the customs and trends of the Jamaican society; a display that is always pleasing to the audience. Families...

Are you familiar with Genie floor polish, coconut brush, and white lime? These were essential items used by Jamaicans in the past to ‘clean up’ or decorate their homes just before Christmas Day. It was customary for floors that were not tiled to be polished, (no matter how modest) and finished with a brilliant sheen that could only be given...

Grand Market popularly referred to as “Gran’ Market” is one of the most anticipated events of the Christmas season.  It is held in all major towns across Jamaica on Christmas Eve. Gran’ Market is usually a colourful and energetic affair that provides the opportunity for shoppers to make last minute purchases or secure unique items that had not been available...

The main holidays for enslaved Africans during the 17th – 19th centuries were Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day. On these occasions, the enslaved Africans were allowed to relax from work and enjoy themselves. A main part of their enjoyment included elaborate and colourful dressing and dancing. On Christmas Day, they dressed in their best clothes and valuable...