The Caribbean region of Nicaragua is characterized by its colorful celebrations, full of rhythm and flavor. A notable example is the Fiesta de la Emancipación in Corn Island, a three-day festival that reconnects locals with their roots.
This festival, which brings together the entire community, national tourists and other nationalities, is celebrated from August 27 to 29 on Great Corn Island and Little Corn Island, commemorating the abolition of black slavery on the islands on August 27, 1841, on the shores of Southwest Bay of Great Corn Island.
Locals remember this day by honoring their ancestors, who were enslaved by British colonists on the Mosquito Coast. They received news of their freedom from Colonel Alexander McDonald, sent on behalf of Queen Victoria of England and the Mosquito King, Robert Charles Frederick. The newly freedmen celebrated this momentous day with crab soup.
As part of the agenda for this important date, on August 27th a parade of floats and troupes takes place through the main streets of Great Corn Island, followed by a cultural event, free tasting of traditional food, such as crab soup, traditional games and a live music concert.
The following day, August 28, the crowning of the queen of the islands, Miss Corn Island, takes place, where the six neighborhoods that make up the islands, along with Little Corn Island, participate in the pageant. On August 29, the entire community moves to Little Corn Island to celebrate with traditional games, cultural performances and tasting of typical food.
In Nicaragua, emancipation from slavery did not only occur on Corn Island, but also in Bluefields and Pearl Lagoon on August 10, 1841. However, on Corn Island, this holiday has been celebrated uninterruptedly since 1852, with the Ebenezer Baptist Church institutionalizing the celebration and the local government organizing it since 1980.
Visit Corn Island from August 27-29 and enjoy its biggest party while admiring its beautiful landscapes, rich culture and tasting its coconut and seafood-based food.
Written by Shayron Tower
