The National Day of Saint Lucia is observed on December 13 every year in Saint Lucia, located in the Caribbean. This holiday is named after its patron saint, St. Lucy, and celebrates her life and death. Saint Lucia was formerly known as The Windward island, which was first discovered in the late 15th or early 16th century by the Europeans. The first settlers were of French origin. They came to the island, naming it Saint Lucia, giving it the distinction of being the only nation in the world with a female name. Saint Lucia of Syracuse was a young Christian martyr. She died during the Diocletianic Persecution of Christians in the Roman Empire.
History of National Day of Saint Lucia
The National day of Saint Lucia is celebrated on December 13. The holiday is a perfect opportunity to appreciate the patron Saint Lucia and show appreciation for the history she holds in the country. Saint Lucia is also the patron saint of a small island called Malta. Saint Lucia is believed to have converted to Christianity after an angel appeared to her. After the conversion, she dedicated her life to Christianity. She donated her family’s wealth to the poor and needy.Lucia took food and aid to Christians hiding in the Roman catacombs. She wore a candle-lit wreath on her head to light her way, which also allowed her hands to be free to carry as much food as possible. The pagan man to whom Lucia was betrothed heard that Lucia was giving away his dowry, so he reported her to the authorities. Lucia was put to death when she refused to honor the Roman Gods, thus becoming a martyr.Lucy became a widely venerated saint. Her popularity had spread to England, France, and Scandinavia by the sixth century. The National Festival of Lights and Renewal is held the evening before Saint Lucia day. The capital of Saint Lucia, Castries, is lit by many decorative lights. Local workers try their best to make the best-decorated lantern. The festivities usually end with a fireworks display. A special devotion to Saint Lucia is practiced in the Italian regions of Veneto, Friuli Venezia Giulia, Lombardy, Emilia-Romagna, and Trentino-Alto Adige.
National Day of Saint Lucia timeline
The Arawaks and Kalinago Caribs inhabit Saint Lucia.
Saint Lucia is colonized by the British and French.
Saint Lucia joins the semi-autonomous West Indies Federation, although its colonial status remains unchanged.
Saint Lucia gains complete independence on February 22.
National Day of Saint Lucia FAQs
Is Saint Lucia big?
The size of Saint Lucia is roughly 238 square miles. It measures 14 miles wide and 27 miles long.
What is the population of St Lucia?
Saint Lucia has a population of about 100,000 people living around the coasts.
When did the French take over?
The French took over Saint Lucia in 1660 after the treaty with the Caribs was signed.
How to Observe National Day of Saint Lucia
-
Visit Saint Lucia
You can enjoy the holiday by visiting Saint Lucia. The country has many activities you can enjoy.
-
Share the holiday
It's always fun to share a holiday with friends and family. Tell them all about this fun Christian holiday.
-
Donate
You can follow in Saint Lucia's footsteps and donate to the needy. You'll be happy to help people.
5 Interesting Facts About Saint Lucia
-
It has the Jacquot
Saint Lucia is the only country where you'll find the Jacquot or St. Lucia Parrot.
-
It has mountains
The Pitons are two volcanic spires and mountainous plugs that form part of Saint Lucia.
-
It has a volcano
Saint Lucia is home to the only drive-in volcano in the world.
-
You can make chocolate
Visitors can make their chocolate bar on the plantation tours.
-
There are a lot of rainforests
Rainforests cover about 70% of the country's land.
Why National Day of Saint Lucia is Important
-
It encourages generosity
The holiday encourages more people to be generous to the people around them. People can give others hope and light during the darkest times of their lives.
-
It maintains tradition
The occasion upholds a long-standing Saint Lucian custom that has been handed down through the ages. The younger generation remains in touch with their cultures and traditions.
-
It honors the saint
The holiday honors the sacrifice made by Saint Lucia many years ago. She had dedicated her life to Christianity and gave away most of her wealth to the poor and the needy.
National Day of Saint Lucia dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 | December 13 | Tuesday |
| 2023 | December 13 | Wednesday |
| 2024 | December 13 | Friday |
| 2025 | December 13 | Saturday |
| 2026 | December 13 | Sunday |
