Independence Day in Saint Kitts And Nevis

In Saint Kitts and Nevis, Independence Day is a public holiday that’s observed annually on September 19th. This holiday commemorates the country’s independence from the UK on this date in 1983. This is a National Holiday in Saint Kitts and Nevis and is usually celebrated in conjunction with National Heroes’ Day — a holiday that’s observed on the 16th of September.

During these events, a variety of different events can occur and it seems like every years’ celebration is different from the previous year. Common events that happen on these holidays include a military parade, an annual independence speech delivered by the Prime Minister, marching bands, and concerts.

The History Of Independence Day In Saint Kitts And Nevis

When Christopher Columbus landed on the island at the end of the 15th century, he named it Christopher, after his patron saint. During the 17th century, the islands were at the heart of a dispute by Britain, France, and Spain. Britain would end up taking the island and the territory was ceded to them in 1713 by the French.

Saint Kitts, Nevis, and the territory of Anguilla were then united as a British dependency in 1871. It would eventually become Saint Christopher-Nevis-Anguilla and would become a member of the West Indies Associated States in the 1960s.

Saint Kitts and Nevis would attain independence on September 19th, 1983 within the British Commonwealth. Kennedy Simmonds would become the country’s first prime minister. Not long after independence, Independence Day was created as a National Holiday.

Observing Independence Day In Saint Kitts And Nevis

This holiday is always preceded by a concert if celebrations from Heroes’ Day aren’t still ongoing. In the capital of Basseterre, the main celebrations of this holiday are held on Independence Day and these celebrations include a parade, carnivals, calypso shows, and lots of music and food.

Where is it celebrated?
Saint Kitts and Nevis (Public holiday)
When is it?
This year (2023)
September 19 Tuesday
Next year (2024)
September 19 Thursday
Last year (2022)
September 19 Monday