Emancipation Park is a public park in New Kingston, close to hotels, offices and restaurants in the city centre. It opened in 2002 on seven acres of land given by the neighbouring Liguanea Club. The southern entrance is marked by the Redemption Song sculpture, a bronze work by the Jamaican artist Laura Facey. Inside, you will find fountains, lawns, shady trees, a jogging track and statues of Jamaica's national heroes, each with a description of the hero's role in the country's liberation. It suits a stroll, a run, a family outing or a quiet break from the city.
Opening and origins
The park opened to the public in 2002. It was created on seven acres of land given by the Liguanea Club, which sits next to it. The park was opened a day before Emancipation Day, and its name marks that commemoration, which honours the end of slavery in Jamaica.
Today the park is one of the better kept public spaces in Kingston. Office workers cool off on the lawns during the day, and in the late afternoon older men gather to play dominoes.
The Redemption Song sculpture
The sculpture stands at the southern entrance and is the first thing most visitors see. It is a bronze work by the artist Laura Facey, commissioned by the government of Jamaica, and it stands about 11 feet tall. It shows two figures celebrating their freedom, with broken shackles at their feet.
The proportions of the figures have drawn debate, and some visitors comment on them. Take a few minutes to look at the work up close and read the surrounding setting before you move on. The sculpture is the park's central focus, so it is worth planning your entry around it.
Walking the grounds
A jogging track runs around the park, and it is well used in the early morning and at the end of the day. Fountains, hedges and palms are spread across the lawns, and benches are placed along the paths. Orchids and national trees and flowers are planted in several areas.
The statues of the national heroes are placed through the grounds. Each one has a description of the hero's role in the country's liberation, so you can follow the paths and read them in order. A stage at the park hosts concerts, fairs and yoga sessions, so check what is on before you go.
Small speakers are hidden in the grass, and reggae music often plays across the park.
Facilities and access
The park has picnic tables, a barbecue grill, a playground, a basketball court, a volleyball court and a tennis court. Dogs are allowed, and the park has an area for dog walking. Public restrooms are on site.
The entrance, parking lot, seating and restroom are listed as wheelchair accessible. There is a free parking lot and a paid parking lot, and free street parking is also available nearby.
Where it sits
Emancipation Park is at the crossroads of Oxford Road and Knutsford Boulevard, in New Kingston. It sits across from the Jamaica Pegasus Hotel and is close to the main hotels and restaurants of the district. Because it is in the middle of the city's business area, it is easy to add to a day of visits or a meal nearby.
FAQ
Is there an entry fee?
No. Emancipation Park is a free public park. Parking is available in both a free lot and a paid lot.
Are dogs allowed in Emancipation Park?
Yes. Dogs are allowed, and the park has an area for dog walking.
Is Emancipation Park wheelchair accessible?
The entrance, parking lot, seating and restroom are listed as wheelchair accessible.
What is the Redemption Song sculpture?
It is a bronze sculpture by Laura Facey at the southern entrance of the park. It stands about 11 feet tall and shows two figures celebrating their freedom, with broken shackles at their feet.
When is the best time to visit?
Early morning or late afternoon is best, because midday heat is strong and shaded seating is limited.
