Independence Day in Saint Lucia
Independence Day in Saint Lucia is a holiday observed annually on the 22nd of February. It commemorates the date when Saint Lucia became an independent state in 1979. Although this holiday is an important one in the country, it is not as significant as the National Day of Saint Lucia—a holiday that falls on the 13th of December.
Saint Lucia (Public holiday)This day is marked with its share of celebratory events, however. Usually, preparations for this holiday begin a week before the official day on the calendar. People can expect to see street parades and special ceremonies at the George Odlum Stadium in Castries.
The History of Independence Day in Saint Lucia
Saint Lucia was once called the Windward Island and was first discovered by Europeans during the late 15th century. The first people to settle the island were the French, and they would end up renaming the island to Saint Lucia—a Christian martyr who died during the Christian Persecutions of 304 AD in the Roman Empire.
In 1663, the English took control of the island, and this began a contentious period when the island would change hands between the British and the French about 14 times.
In 1814, the British took full control of the island after the Treaty of Paris ended the Napoleonic Wars. In 1958, the island joined the West Indies Federation, and in 1967, Saint Lucia became a self-governing island as one of the West Indies Associated States. Saint Lucia achieved full independence on February 22, 1979. This day has been celebrated as a holiday ever since.
Observing Independence Day in Saint Lucia
Preparations for this holiday begin a week before the 22nd of February, and on the eve of this holiday, people are encouraged to wear clothing that features the country’s colors. This day is known as National Colors Day.
On Independence Day, there are street parades featuring music and dancing, street food, and a variety of other festive events.
Saint Lucia (Public holiday)
