Jamaica gained independence from the British crown on August 6, 1962. Kicking off with Reggae Sumfest in July and then Emancipation Day on August 1st, Independence Day in Jamaica is more like a long one month celebrations. The country that is always alive, kicks it up a notch another level. Music is a central piece that binds Jamaican culture and so naturally at this time of the year there is a Jamaican Festival Song Contest that showcases up and coming talent. The songs that have traditionally gained the most popularity speak to the strength, resilience, and unique attributes of Jamaica and her people. If you are able to visit Jamaica only once per year, this time period has to be considered just because the culture of the island is most evident at this time.