Declaration of Independence
Barbados achieved freedom on 30 November 1966. Errol Barrow was the first Prime Minister of the country. Independence Day celebration in Barbados is a month-long festival and various activities and events are organized on the occasion. The celebrations begin with a lighting ceremony followed by parades at the Garrison Savannah.
History
The first English settlement was established at Holetown in 1627. Barbados remained a British colony for more than 300 years until it gained independence from Britain on 30 November 1966. The first Independence Day was celebrated by raising the national flag and singing the national anthem.
Songs
Here is the national anthem of Barbados:
In plenty and in time of need
When this fair land was young
Our brave forefathers sowed the seed
From which our pride is sprung
A pride that makes no wanton boast
Of what it has withstood
That binds our hearts from coast to coast
The pride of nationhood
Chorus
We loyal sons and daughters all
Do hereby make it known
These fields and hills beyond recall
Are now our very own
We write our names on history’s page
With expectations great
Strict guardians of our heritage
Firm craftsmen of our fate
The Lord has been the people’s guide
For the past three hundred years
With him still on the people’s side
We have no doubts or fears
Upward and onward we shall go
Inspired, exulting, free
And greater will our nation grow
In strength and unity
Celebrations
Independence Day celebrations are held during the month of November. You can witness fairs, competitions, religious services, and community events on this day. A major highlight of the Independence celebration is the decorative lighting of the Independence Square, Parliament, buildings, and the Independence Arch. Another major highlight is the National Independence Festival of Creative Arts (NIFCA). Here Barbadians of all age groups come to celebrate the day and showcase their skills in music, dance, photography, and arts and crafts.
Facts
- President: Sandra Mason
- Prime Minister: Mia Mottley
- Land area: 166 sq mi (430 sq km)
- Population : 288,625 estimated
- Capital and largest city: Bridgetown
- Monetary unit: Barbados dollar
- Language: English, Bajan
- Religions: Protestant, Adventist, Methodist, Wesleyan, Nazarene, Church of God, Baptist, Moravian, Roman Catholic, Rastafarian
- Industries: light manufacturing, sugar, tourism, component assembly for export.
- Natural resources: fish, petroleum, natural gas
Barbados Facts