Keti Koti (Emancipation Day)

On 1 July 1863 slavery was abolished in Suriname. Keti Koti means ‘the chains are cut’ in Sranan Tongo, and the day remains the most significant commemoration on the national calendar.

The morning brings wreath-laying at the Kwakoe monument and the Bigi Spikri parade through the historic centre: brass bands, kawina rhythms and women in traditional koto dress with folded angisa headscarves. Street food, music and cultural events continue late into the evening, and the Miss Alida pageant crowns its winner around the same date.

Good to know: It is a full national holiday and the centre gets crowded. Arrive early for a good spot along the parade route, and book restaurants ahead for that evening.

Photo: StarNieuws, CC BY 3.0