Celebrating Christmas In Jamaica

When the calendar turns to December, it only means that it is already the height of the Yuletide Season. Considered as one of the merriest events in the whole world but fact of the matter is, there is more to the joy of the gift- giving because it is a commemoration of the Savior’s birth. In every corner of the globe, regardless of what race, there is total festivity through ways that can be unique to them. It is also true when celebrating Christmas in Jamaica.

Celebrating Christmas in Jamaica is sated with a wide selection of carols that are tirelessly played over the radio. It starts from the first week of the month where you can hear the likes of Long Time Ago in Bethlehem, Hark the Herald Angels Sing, I am Dreaming of a White Christmas and Merry Christmas Polka. When the 25th draws near, the more those songs are repeated so it can create a mood of excitement. It is for the intention to help build the intensity higher.

Similar with the rest, celebrating Christmas in Jamaica can be divided into two forms such as the religious aspect and secular customs. In the religious aspect, it is based on Christianity which is with conviction deemed to be a holy event marked by ceremonies performed in the Church for the remembrance of Jesus Christ entry to earth. As with the secular customs, there is the famous Kris Cringle where there is an exchange of presents or family reunions where they gather in clans.

The conventional manner of celebrating Christmas in Jamaica was grounded on the Roman Catholic doctrines as well as in Anglican faith which was influenced when the British colonized the country. It traditionally begins with Advent which is symbolized by putting up a wreath with four candles. It is lighted on the Sunday of every week until all have been lit up. It is the time of preparation before welcoming the Savior. This extends until the observance of the Epiphany or The Three Kings who brought gold, myrrh and frankincense to the baby conceived in a shepherd’s manger.

Early in the morning, locals go out of their houses to sing carols under a lighted candle as they transfer from one house to another. On the eve that is the 24th of December, there are some around the island that hold evening services that features an act of the Jesus Christ story of nativity. There are also some that hold a midnight Mass which is mostly attended by families so as they arrive home after, they can eat together as well as open the gifts under the tree. As for those that are not too much in touch with their spirituality, they hold a public fair where the entire place is decorated with bright lights and colorful ornaments.