Emancipation Day in Suriname, known as Keti Koti, is to mark the abolition of slavery in 1863 (with full freedom realized in 1873). Celebrated with ceremonies, parades, music, and traditional dress, it is a national day of remembrance and cultural pride, symbolizing the breaking of chains and the enduring spirit of freedom.

When is Emancipation Day?

Emancipation Day in Suriname is celebrated on July 1 every year.

The following is the list of Emancipation Day from 2020 to 2049.

The History of Emancipation Day?

Suriname was a Dutch colony where enslaved Africans were brought beginning in the 17th century to work on sugar, coffee, and cocoa plantations.

Life under slavery was extremely harsh, with brutal punishments and exploitation. Resistance took many forms, including rebellions, escapes, and the creation of Maroons (communities of escaped enslaved people) who fought against colonial forces.

On July 1, 1863, the Netherlands formally abolished slavery in Suriname and the Dutch Caribbean colonies.

However, freedom was not immediate. The Dutch government imposed a 10-year mandatory transition period (1863–1873). During this period, formerly enslaved people were required to continue working on plantations under contract, often with little real freedom.

True emancipation only came in 1873, when the 10-year state supervision period ended, marking the first year of complete freedom.

The holiday is called Keti Koti in Sranan Tongo, which means "the chains are cut" or "broken".