Errol Barrow Day in Barbados
Errol Barrow Day is a Barbados public holiday on January 21, honoring the country’s first Prime Minister and National Hero. The date recalls his role in Barbados’s independence and public life.[1][2][3]
Legal status and substitute days
The Public Holidays Act, Cap. 352, lists January 21 as Errol Barrow Day when it falls on a weekday. The Act generally closes places of business, public service departments and schools, while allowing specified exceptions. Shops may open when other laws permit them to do so.[1]
If January 21 falls on a Sunday, the Act makes the following Monday a public holiday in lieu. It does not specify a substitute day when January 21 falls on a Saturday. Government information also describes the Sunday-to-Monday rule for Errol Barrow Day.[1][2]
Why Barbados marks the day
The holiday commemorates Errol Walton Barrow, who became Premier when Barbados attained full internal self-government in 1961. After Barbados became independent in 1966, he served as its first Prime Minister. Parliament later recognized him as one of the country’s National Heroes.[3][4]
Barrow is remembered in Barbados as the “Father of Independence.” His public record also included support for expanded education and social security, as well as work toward Caribbean regional cooperation.[3]
Public tributes and practical planning
The day has been officially observed as a public holiday since 1989. Public tributes have included a government plaque unveiling at The Garden in St. Lucy on Errol Barrow Day in 2020.[3][5]
For practical planning, expect schools, government departments and many businesses to close under the general rule in the Act. The law exempts some services and businesses, including hospitals, hotels, restaurants and public transport companies, and permits certain shops to open under applicable rules. Check with a particular office, shop or service before travelling.[1]
Errol Barrow Day: frequently asked questions
When is Errol Barrow Day?
Who does the holiday honor?
Are businesses and schools closed?
The Act generally bars places of business, public service departments and schools from opening on a public holiday, subject to listed exemptions and shop-opening rules. Confirm arrangements with the specific place you plan to visit.[1]
Does public transport stop?
Public transport companies are among the businesses exempted from the Act’s general closure rule. That does not specify the timetable, so check with the operator before setting out.[1]
Sources and references
Sources used for Errol Barrow Day in Barbados:
- Cap. 352 Public Holidays- The Laws of Barbados; Barbados Government Printing Department
- Bank holidays- Government of Barbados
- A FITTING HONOUR TO A NATIONAL HERO- Barbados Government Information Service
- The History- Parliament of Barbados
- Unveiling of Plaque in Recognition of Service- Office of the Prime Minister of Barbados