National Day of Saint Lucia

National Day of Saint Lucia is observed annually on December 13. This holiday, also known as the Feast of Saint Lucy, honors the island’s patron saint and is a time of immense cultural pride, celebrating the light and renewal she symbolizes.

History of National Day of Saint Lucia

The history of this day is deeply intertwined with the island’s colonial past and its religious identity. Saint Lucia is the only sovereign country in the world named after a historical woman, Saint Lucy of Syracuse, a Christian martyr who died during the Diocletianic Persecution in 304 AD. Legend states that French sailors (or potentially Columbus, though this is debated) were shipwrecked on the island on December 13, the saint’s feast day, and named the land in her honor. For centuries, the date has been a significant religious observance, but it has evolved into a broader expression of national identity that celebrates the island’s heritage.

In modern times, the holiday has transformed into the “Festival of Lights and Renewal.” This theme aligns with the meaning of the name Lucy, which is derived from the Latin word lux, meaning light. The celebration was revitalized to focus on the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil. While Saint Lucia’s Independence Day is in February, December 13 remains the “National Day,” serving as a spiritual and cultural anchor that marks the beginning of the Christmas season.

Why is National Day of Saint Lucia important?

This day serves as a powerful reminder of the island’s unique standing in global history. Being the only nation named after a female historical figure is a point of distinction and pride for the Lucian people. The holiday reinforces this identity, blending the religious reverence for the patron saint with a secular celebration of the island’s resilience and beauty. It is a day that unites the community, regardless of political or social differences, under the common banner of their shared home.

Furthermore, the Festival of Lights serves as a beacon of hope and artistic expression. The focus on light is not just symbolic; it fosters creativity through lantern-making competitions that engage artisans and schoolchildren alike. It encourages the preservation of traditional crafts while inspiring innovation. The festival also acts as a catalyst for community renewal, prompting citizens to clean and decorate their homes and neighborhoods in preparation for the upcoming year.

• It celebrates the only country named after a woman.
• It marks the start of the festive Christmas season.
• It promotes local artistry through lantern competitions.
• It fosters community unity and spiritual renewal.
• It honors the patron saint of the blind and of light.

How to Celebrate National Day of Saint Lucia

Celebrating this day in Saint Lucia is a feast for the senses, centered around the Festival of Lights. The capital city, Castries, comes alive with a spectacular parade of lanterns. Residents and visitors gather at Derek Walcott Square to witness the illumination of lights and a fireworks display that brightens the night sky. If you are on the island, participating in or watching the lantern competition is a must, where intricate designs made from bamboo and colored paper are showcased.

For those celebrating at home, food is a central element of the observance. It is traditional to prepare a meal featuring the national dish, green figs and saltfish (green bananas boiled and served with salted cod). This is often accompanied by sorrel, a bright red drink made from the sepals of the roselle plant, seasoned with ginger and spices. You might also light candles in your windows to honor the theme of light or read the story of Saint Lucy to understand the historical roots of the day.

• Watch the lantern parade in Castries.
• Eat a traditional meal of green figs and saltfish.
• Drink homemade sorrel or ginger beer.
• Decorate your home with lights to symbolize renewal.
• Attend a church service honoring Saint Lucy.

National Day of Saint Lucia Dates Table