National Heroes Day in Barbados

A Barbadian holiday and its legal basis

The Public Holidays Act names 28 April as National Heroes Day when it falls on a weekday. If 28 April falls on a Sunday, the following Monday is a public holiday in lieu. The Government’s bank-holiday calendar also identifies the day as honouring Barbados’s National Heroes.[1][2]

Under the Act, public service departments, schools and places of business generally must close on a public holiday, subject to exceptions. The law permits certain services and businesses to operate, including hospitals, hotels, restaurants, public transport companies, taxicabs, and services connected with harbours and airports. Shops may also open where permitted under shop laws. Check with a particular workplace, shop or service before making plans.[1]

Why 28 April matters

Barbados’s Order of National Heroes Act, passed in 1998, established the Order and sets criteria for the honour. These include outstanding service that altered the course of Barbados’s history, pioneering leadership or achievement, and sacrifice that improved the social or economic conditions of Barbados and its people.[4]

The date also marks the birthday of Sir Grantley Herbert Adams, one of the National Heroes and Barbados’s first Premier. The national holiday connects that date with remembrance of the wider group honoured for shaping the country.[5]

Remembering the National Heroes

The National Heroes Gallery at Parliament explains the values associated with the honourees: democracy, faith and freedom, social justice, and excellence. Its displays present their lives and contributions as role models for future generations, offering visitors a way to learn about Barbados’s history beyond the holiday itself.[3]

Public observances have included official recognition of service. For example, a government Humanitarian Awards ceremony was held on National Heroes Day in 2022 to recognize people who supported Barbados during the COVID-19 pandemic. That was a particular programme; there is no single ceremony or custom that takes place every year.[6]

Planning around the holiday

Because many public offices, schools and businesses are generally closed, complete routine errands before the holiday or confirm opening hours directly. Some essential, hospitality, transport and other exempt services may operate, but their schedules can vary. The law allows public transport companies and taxicabs to work; it does not guarantee a particular timetable.[1]