The National Day of Saint Lucia which is also called Independence Day. This is celebrated annually on the 22nd February. This is the anniversary of Saint Lucia’s independence from their British colonial rule in 1979. Here is a brief overview of the process of celebrating the National Day of Saint Lucia.
National Day of Saint Lucia
Firstly the independence of Saint Lucia’s occured over many years as this was a gradual process. Secondly the call for self governance started in the 1950’s in the country. In 1951 there were constitutional changes which allowed them to setup their legislative council. So in 1967 Saint Lucia became an associated state of the United Kingdom. Finally much like other countries the first changes was by allowing more internal control over their own affairs.
Then in 1978 there was a constitutional conference to discuss the future of Saint Lucia’s political status. This occured in London and they negotiated for full independence. This was eventually granted by the British government. So on the 22 February 1979 their got their independence. Saint Lucia was the first Prime Minister, Sir John Compton, declared Saint Lucia a sovereign nation, and the country’s new flag was raised to mark the occasion.
See also the National Day in Suriname as well as the National Day of Haiti and National Day of Barbados.
Public Holidays in Saint Lucia
Firstly here are the public holidays celebrated in Saint Lucia:
- New Year’s Day – January 1st
- Saint Lucia Independence Day – February 22nd
- Good Friday – varies (usually in March or April)
- Easter Monday – varies (usually in March or April)
- Labour Day – May 1st
- Whit Monday – varies (usually in May or June)
- Emancipation Day – August 1st
- Thanksgiving Day – October 7th
- National Day of Community Service – December 5th
- Christmas Day – December 25th
- Boxing Day – December 26th
Finally note that the dates for Good Friday, Easter Monday, and Whit Monday may vary depending on the lunar calendar.
