Junkanoo In The Bahamas

If you have never heard of the Junkanoo in the Bahamas, and you are planning travel to the Bahamas during Christmas time or some other major holidays, then you are in for a treat! Junkanoo in the Bahamas is a national festival that most believe began during the 16th and 17th centuries and continues to be celebrated several times a year, every year in the Bahamas!

During the 16th and 17th century, slaves were given a special holiday during Christmas to reunite with family and celebrate. Families gathered for music, dancing, and wore costumes, a tradition that still holds today. Bahamans continued the tradition after emancipation, and the Bahamas is the only place Junkanoo is still honored in such a fashion.

After hundreds of years, Junkanoo in the Bahamas evolved into a much larger, more organized celebration. Costumes become more intricate and sophisticated each year, while the festival is held as a full-blown parade. Bands rush the streets to play music, competing for incentive prizes! Each competing band chooses a theme and members dress according to the theme in variations.

Visiting Junkanoo in the Bahamas

The huge parade celebration called Junkanoo in the Bahamas was once held only during Christmastime long ago. Over the years, the celebration went on longer, and now you can experience it on other holidays as well. New Year's Day and Independence Day were deemed fit to celebrate Junkanoo. Locals and tourists alike are invited to dance, sing, enjoy music, and all around have a fun time without abandon.