Montserrat Readies St. Patrick’s Day Celebrations

With the distinction of being the only nation outside of Ireland to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day as a national holiday, the island of Montserrat comes alive for the annual event.

Showcasing the mix of Irish and African heritage, the weeklong festival will take place from March 13 to 20 at various locations throughout the island.

This year’s schedule of events includes a Freedom Hike, a Kite Festival at Blake’s Football Field and the annual St. Patrick’s Day Dinner on March 13. The celebrations continue with a church service followed by a performing arts presentation by a dance troupe from India at the Montserrat Cultural Centre on March 14.

Residents and locals will be treated to an arts and craft exhibition as well as a cultural performance by the Emerald Community Singers Irish Cabaret at the Montserrat Cultural Centre on March 15.

Cultural presentations resume on the eve of St. Patrick’s Day with the Penny Concert for Senior Citizens at the Lookout Community Centre. The highlight of the week takes place on March 17 with festivities that include a Freedom Run/Walk, Heritage Day Feast where traditional local food will be on sale, along with a revival of traditional games, storytelling and performances by masked street dancers in traditional costumes and Ole Time Bingo, held at Festival Village.

On March 19, Montserratians will celebrate the Island Wide Day of Celebration of National Pride, Market Day String Band Nite and the highly anticipated island pub crawl. The pub crawl, with bars and restaurants will provide both residents and visitors with the opportunity to toast to good health and prosperity over a pint of Guinness. The St. Patrick’s Day celebrations will culminate with a Junior Calypso Competition on March 20.