This year's theme recognizes that freedom is not only a historical achievement but also a living expression found in our traditions, language, food, music, knowledge systems, spirituality, and community practices. Through cultural preservation and celebration, we honor the resilience of our ancestors and the enduring legacy they have passed on to future generations. Observed annually on July 1st, Emancipation Day marks the abolition of slavery in the former Dutch colonies in 1863.
The week-long observance will begin on Sunday, June 28 at 5:30 a.m., with a Sunrise Heritage Hike to the Indigo Plantation at Flat Point, followed by a Healing Session at The Cove Bay.
Monday, June 29, the community is invited to attend a Traditional Local Medicinal Plant Identification Workshop at the Saba Heritage Center in Windwardside starting at 5:30pm.
Tuesday June 30, participants will have the opportunity to learn the preparation of Traditional Saban Corn Pudding at the Eugenius Johnson Center in Windwardside starting at 5:30pm.
Wednesday, July 1, at 10:00 a.m., the public is invited to a Traditional Cassava Bread Making class at the Eugenius Johnson Center.
The week's activities will culminate in the Official Emancipation Day Commemoration Ceremony on Wednesday, July 1, 2026, at 4:00 p.m. at the Princess Juliana Sports Field in The Bottom.
The Committee is honored to welcome renowned Jamaican poet, cultural activist, broadcaster, and philosopher Mutabaruka as the 2026 Keynote Speaker. Through his thought-provoking work and lifelong commitment to African consciousness and Caribbean identity, Mutabaruka's message strongly reflects this year's theme, reminding us that freedom lives on through the preservation, practice, and celebration of our culture.
The public is warmly invited to participate in all activities as Saba comes together to honor the past, celebrate the present, and strengthen the cultural traditions that continue to define who we are.
This commemoration was made possible by the Slavery Memorial Committee, The Public Entity Saba, The Saba Heritage Center, Saba Association of Caribbean States and The Elements of Saba Foundation.
For additional information, please contact: Emancipation Day 2026 Organizing Committee via email: director@sabarc.org or telephone: +599-416-2833
