St Patrick’s Festival is officially underway, marked by a vibrant launch event filled with dance, music, inspiring speeches and the ceremonial lighting of the symbolic flame.
The celebration was held on the afternoon of Saturday, 8 March, beneath the historic silk cotton tree at Cudjoe Head, drawing dozens of attendees.
Host Sharlene Lindsay, head of planning at Montserrat Arts Council, reminded the crowd that the festivities do not only celebrate the island’s rich Irish and African heritage.
They also recognise the slave rebellion against Irish plantation owners on 17 March, 1768, which led to nine rebels including leader Cudjoe being hanged.
Cordella Yearwood, cultural events coordinator at Montserrat Arts Council, told guests they were standing on historic ground “rich with stories of resilience, determination and strength”.
“The [symbolic] flame serves as a powerful reminder of the struggles our forefathers endured to secure the freedoms we enjoy today,” she said.
Yearwood explained that Montserrat is the only place outside of mainland Ireland where St Patrick’s Day is recognised as a public holiday.
This is an acknowledgement of a shared heritage and the enduring spirits of all people, she said, before encouraging people to take part in the many festival activities that are planned.
“Enjoy the celebrations and be sure to spread the word that Montserrat is the safest place on Earth,” she said.
The launch event also featured performances of steel pan music, dance and afro drumming, as well as the lighting of the symbolic flame.
This year’s St Patrick’s Festival is taking place from 8 to 17 March and will include events such as the St Patrick’s Day jouvert, St Patrick’s Day parade, Heritage Day and Junior Calypso Monarch.
Click here to watch the launch event in full.
