National Heroes Day Celebrations

Wednesday 14^th of March was National Heroes Day. It is a national holiday and is celebrated island wide with many festivals showcasing local foods, native dress and dance and excursions to many national parks and recreational cites.  St.Vincent has many heroes some of which are nationally recognized and include: Joseph Chatoyer, E. T.  Joshua , Milton Cato, Hugh Mulzac and George Mc Intosh . Many people associate this day with Joseph Chatoyer, who was a fierce Carib chief who fought off English settlers for as long as possible.  Joseph Chatoyer was the Paramount chief, who ruled over the entire region. He died on the battle field fighting to protect his island St.Vincent and the Grenadines.

Some Vincentians usually attend the Joseph Chatoyer memorial service which is held at his shrine located at Dorsetshire Hill, which celebrates his life and contributions.  At this memorial service the crowds are entertained by dances and drumming by actual living Caribs from St.Vincent as well as neighboring islands.

Another of our national heroes is E. T. Joshua, who was St. Vincent’s first Prime Minister after independence. The National airport is named after him.

Not only is this day spent celebrating our national heroes, but it is also a day  where many families come together to enjoy the beaches. They have picnics and just have a good time enjoying the holiday that is National Heroes Day.