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Gran’ Grand Market In Jamaica
Christmas Eve In Jamaica

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grand_market_downtown_kingston_gleanerGrand Market in Jamaica

by Venesha Johnson | Associate Writer

Grand market on Christmas Eve is exactly as it sounds. Merchants line the streets with their wares. Just think of it, you can find it. Then, shop until Christmas Morning!

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Christmas time in Jamaica…What can I say? You just have to be here to truly experience it. My words won’t do it justice, but I’ll try. Christmas is not just a day for us, it is an entire season, and the festivities leading up to the day, and even those after, are experiences that are not to be missed.

The biggest of them all… probably Christmas Eve, or what we like to call, Grand Market night.

What is Gran Market?

Gran Market is a vibrant Christmas tradition celebrated in major towns across Jamaica. It's a colorful and energetic affair, setting the stage for a festive atmosphere.

How Did It Start?

Grand Market dates back to the enslavement era. The slaves supposedly received a few days off, and on one of these days, they would get dressed up and go out to mingle. In the beginning, the Grand Market served as a place for slaves to gather and have fun despite all the hardships they endured as mistreated and oppressed people.

Some slaves would go out and sell handcrafted goods like baskets and straw hats. Others would go and perform, drumming on animal-skin drums or singing.

Gran' Market is more than just a shopping spree; it's an event deeply ingrained in the Jamaican Christmas tradition. From the crack of dawn, until the stars twinkle in the night sky, the day is filled with a palpable energy. As a born and raised Jamaican, you know the drill – the whole island comes alive with a contagious festive fervour.

One of the charming aspects of Gran' Market is its role as the saviour for last-minute shoppers. As the clock ticks towards Christmas Eve, the marketplace becomes a bustling hive of activity.

It's the perfect opportunity to snag those unique items you couldn't find anywhere else throughout the year. From handmade crafts to one-of-a-kind decorations, Gran' Market has it all. Perfect time to get cute gifts for your children, loved ones and friends too.

By 6:00 p.m., the party truly kicks into high gear. Sidewalks transform into makeshift stalls, with vendors showcasing an array of goods. The usual vending rules take a backseat to accommodate the surge of shoppers. It's a chaotic symphony of commerce, and somehow, it works seamlessly.

What's on the shopping list, you ask? Well, everything! Christmas decorations that turn homes into winter wonderlands, stylish clothing to don for festive gatherings, mouth-watering Jamaican cuisine, toys that light up children's faces, and household products that scream 'holiday cheer.' It's a shopper's paradise, a one-stop destination for all things Christmas.

But Gran' Market is not just about the material delights. It's a sensory overload with music echoing through the shopping centres. Sound systems blast reggae and dancehall beats, setting the rhythm for impromptu street dances that continue well into Christmas Day. The air is alive with the essence of celebration, and the joy is infectious.

And let's remember the little ones! Gran' Market is a treat for children, offering a playground of delights. Bounce-about structures beckon with promises of laughter, and now and then, a Santa Claus impersonator adds a sprinkle of magic to the festivities. It's a moment for families to come together and create cherished memories.

It's different in some ways for every town square, some towns may even have fun activities like merry-go-rounds and slingshots for the kids.

When Does It Happen?

The Grand Market is a part of the Christmas celebrations in Jamaica, specifically on Christmas Eve. It's a time when towns come alive with activities and festivities, creating a unique experience for locals and visitors alike.

What Happens at Grand Market?

The market offers a variety of experiences, from cultural showcases to local shopping. It's a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in Jamaican traditions and festivities. Expect lively music, delicious food, and a sense of community spirit.

Where Can You Experience the Grand Market?

Grand Market takes place in all major towns across Jamaica. So, whether you find yourself in Kingston or another vibrant locale, you're likely to encounter the festivities.

Where is The Best Grand Market?

It is hard to say for sure, but Brown’s Town in St. Ann has been said to have one of the best grand markets and every year people travel from all over the island to get there and experience it for themselves. Linstead, St. Catherine is also one of the best spots for Grand Market.

However, it doesn’t matter where you are, every town in Jamaica comes alive on Grand Market night and you are sure to have a good time.

So, whether you're a seasoned local or a curious visitor, Gran' Market is an experience that will etch itself into your memories. This Christmas tradition embodies the true Jamaican spirit of joy, togetherness, and celebration.

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Return to Jamaican Christmas Traditions from Jamaican Grand Market
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References & Sources For Jamaican Grand Market

  1. Grand Market in Jamaica (no date) Prezi. Available at: https://prezi.com/9cra8waq25ea/grand-market-in-jamaica/#:~:text=Origin%20of%20Grand%20Market,like%20straw%20hats%20and%20baskets (Accessed: 20 December 2023).
  2. Linstead Grand Market lived up to its hype (2016) News | Jamaica Gleaner. Available at: https://jamaica-gleaner.com/article/news/20161228/linstead-grand-market-lived-its-hype (Accessed: 20 December 2023).

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