Jamaicans around the world are gearing up to celebrate the island’s 60th anniversary of independence on August 6, with events in both Jamaica and Canada commemorating the occasion.

The Jamaica 60 theme is “Reigniting a Nation For Greatness,” and the nation is inviting Jamaicans living in Canada and friends of Jamaica to “come home” to rediscover their roots or reignite their passion for Jamaican culture. According to Canada’s 2016 Census, there are more than 300,000 Jamaican-Canadians living in the country.

“We want all Jamaicans to rediscover their roots and reignite their passion for Jamaican culture. Celebrations and preparations in Jamaica and Canada are in high gear and the excitement couldn’t be more palpable,” said Edmund Bartlett, Minister of Tourism for Jamaica.

Events will be held both In Jamaica and Canada to celebrate the island’s six decades of independence.

Events In Canada

Bob Marley One Love Experience in Toronto (extended until September 5): This North American premiere of the Bob Marley One Love Experience showcases never-before-seen photographs and memorabilia and immerses Marley fans in a journey through his life, passions, influences and enduring legacy.

Jamaica Lights (August 6): Canadian landmarks from coast to coast will illuminate in Jamaican flag colours. Locations confirmed to illuminate include: Niagara Falls, Ottawa’s ByWard Market, Halifax City Hall, the Clock Tower at Mississauga Civic Centre, Brampton City Hall Clock Tower and Science World in Vancouver. Edmonton’s High Level Bridge will also be illuminated on August 8.

Jamaica 60 flag raising ceremonies: Flag raising ceremonies in celebration of Jamaica 60 will take place at Toronto City Hall (July 31), Markham (August 5), Mississauga (August 5), Oshawa (August 5), London (August 5), Brampton (August 6) and Hamilton City Hall (August 7).

Sinting Fest on Eglinton West (August 26 - 28): Sinting Fest will take place for three days in August and is designed to help revitalize Toronto’s Little Jamaica neighbourhood.

“In Canada, we are particularly proud to announce our Jamaica Lights activations when Canadian landmarks from coast to coast will light up in Jamaican colours as a tribute for our Diamond Anniversary,” said Angella Bennett, Regional Director, Jamaica Tourist Board Canada.

“This is one of our signature events for this year, and we couldn’t be more thrilled to share our pride across Canada.”

More information on these and other local Jamaica 60 events can be found at www.jamaica60to.com.

Events in Jamaica

After a two-year hiatus, Jamaica’s popular annual festivals are back this year showcasing some of the country’s hottest local talents.

With Jamaica’s 60th anniversary of independence, all local festivals this year will be extra celebratory, with signature summer festivals including Reggae Sumfest, Jamaica Dream WKND and MoBay Jerk & Food Festival.

Special Jamaica 60 Offers

Jamaica 60 Sweet Deals & Specials: The Jamaica Tourist Board has worked with hotel and resort partners to offer a collection of deals across various destinations in Jamaica.

Couples Resorts’ “Join the Jubilee!” Offer: Couples Resorts is celebrating Jamaica’s Diamond Jubilee with a special offer. Travellers that book by August 31 for travel August 1 through December 16 will receive their 6th night free, a $60 resort credit and two times the Romance Rewards points.