January is a special month in Jamaica, and you know why?

The annual Maroon Festival is held on January 6 in the lively Accompong Village.

If you've never been, this festival draws thousands of culture enthusiasts on the island and from countries overseas to the beautiful and scenic Maroon settlement in the hills of Saint Elizabeth.

You can see, feel, and even taste the Maroon experience at this cultural event.

It's like stepping into a time machine that takes you back to the days when the first group of enslaved Africans fought for their freedom from the Spanish and English colonizers.

Maybe you intend to attend this year so here are four quick facts about the annual Maroon festival in Jamaica.

First Maroon War

The heart of the Maroon Festival lies in its historical roots, tracing back to the courageous leadership of Cudjoe during the First Maroon War.

Defeating the British forces, Cudjoe secured self-government and the lands the Maroons already inhabited.

Traditional rituals on display

The village of Accompong comes alive with traditional Maroon activities on January 6.

From traditional dances to beating African drums and singing folk songs, it's quite an entertaining experience. 

The highlight of the festivities is the "sounding" of the abeng, a cow horn; its resounding echo can be heard from miles away.

Live ital cooking

A unique aspect of the Maroon Festival is the culinary displays. 

Men, in a reversal of traditional gender roles, take charge of the cooking.

What makes this cuisine distinct is the absence of salt, a deliberate nod to the Maroons' historical resistance against the British, who sought to control even the seasoning of their food.

Great place to shop for crafts

The Maroon lifestyle mirrors that of the Rastafarians, and as you explore the Maroon village, you will come across skilled Rasta craftsmen and women with beautifully decorated stalls showcasing one-of-a-kind art and craft pieces.

It's the perfect spot to buy unique Jamaican keepsakes or souvenirs for yourself or for a friend.

Jamaica's event calendar

 If you haven't already. take a look at the top festivals happening in Jamaica in 2024.