JAMAICA is best known for its lush topography and as the birthplace of reggae music.

After World War II, the country began its long transition to independence.

When did Jamaica gain independence?

Jamaica gained independence on August 6, 1962.

Jamaica was a British colony until its independence, previously owned by Spaniards.

After its independence, however, it retained its membership in the Commonwealth of Nations and adopted a Westminster-style parliamentary system.

Alexander Bustamante became the tropical country's first prime minister at the age of 78.

Today, Jamaica is a constitutional monarchy with the Queen of England as Sovereign.

How is Jamaican Independence Day celebrated?

Independence Day is one of the most senior public holidays celebrated in Jamaica.

The main celebrations occur in the evening at the National Arena in the fitly named Independence Park.

During the day, Jamaicans take part in huge street parades while donning clothing colored like the Jamaican flag.

The first ever "Jamaica Festival was initiated in 1962 by the future prime minister Edward Seaga as a way to showcase the literary and performing artists of the country.

The Jamaica Festival Commission was established by the Jamaican Parliament in 1968 to oversee the festivities.

One of the main attractions of the day is the Popular Song Competition (known as the Independence Festival Song Competition before 1990), which first took place in 1966.

Various marching bands from across the country participate in the day's celebrations.

What foods are eaten on Jamaican Independence Day?

Jamaicans celebrate Independence Day by eating native foods relevant to Jamaican culture.

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This includes sugar cane, boiled corn, jerked chicken and pork, roast fish, and more.

Often, street vendors will offer ice-cold jellies, fruit smoothies, and ice cream to the large crowds that gather to celebrate.

Other traditional Jamaican dishes include curry goat, ackee and saltfish, run down (a one-pot fish stew), callaloo (a cooked leaf vegetable), and plantains.

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