National Day in Saint Lucia
Saint Lucia observes National Day on December 13, a date associated with Saint Lucy, the patron saint of light. The island’s December celebrations include lantern making, carols and the Festival of Light, which helps usher in the Christmas season.[1][2]
Date and public holiday status
The Government of Saint Lucia’s public holiday list names December 13 as National Day. The Labour Code sets rules for work on public holidays: in general, an employer may not require an employee to work that day without the employee’s agreement and overtime pay. The Code provides exceptions for specified kinds of work, including hospitality, emergency and protective services.[1][3]
Check opening hours with shops and transport providers before you travel.
Saint Lucy and the meaning of light
Saint Lucia’s government describes December 13 as Saint Lucia’s Day, or Saint Lucy’s Day, and identifies it as the feast day of the patron saint of light. The Cultural Development Foundation connects the festival’s light imagery with renewal and the idea of light overcoming darkness. The day is therefore observed through a blend of national and religious associations specific to Saint Lucia.[2][4]
The Cultural Development Foundation links the Festival of Light with renewal.[4]
Lanterns, carols and the Festival of Light
Lanterns are a central part of the December observances. The Cultural Development Foundation describes a tradition of placing lanterns at home doorways, which developed into a competition where young people and adults make lanterns from natural and recycled materials, as well as coloured paper. The Government’s account also describes a lantern competition and displays of hand-crafted lanterns.[2][4]
The Festival of Light traditionally takes place on the eve of Saint Lucia Day. The Foundation describes a lantern parade through Castries, Christmas songs and dance, lights switched on at Derek Walcott Square and fireworks. Government reporting also records carol performances by choirs and vocalists from different parts of the island, with the Festival of Carols held in a different community in different years.[2][4]
Planning around the holiday
National Day falls during a wider season of December festivals that the Government describes as a lead-in to Christmas. Residents and visitors should confirm hours and routes with the relevant businesses and operators before making plans.[1][2]
Frequently asked questions
When is National Day in Saint Lucia?
It is observed on December 13, according to the Government of Saint Lucia’s public holiday list.[1]
Is National Day a public holiday?
What can people see during the celebrations?
Are shops and transport services open?
Check directly with the business or service you plan to use before travelling.
Sources and references
Sources used for National Day in St. Lucia:
- Public Holidays- Government of Saint Lucia
- December Festivals 2017- Government of Saint Lucia
- Labour Code 2006- Government of Saint Lucia
- December Festivals – Cultural Development Foundation (CDF) St. Lucia- Cultural Development Foundation