Saint Helena Day is a public holiday celebrated on May 21st in Saint Helena, an island in the South Atlantic Ocean. It commemorates the day in 1502 when the island was discovered by the Portuguese navigator João da Nova, and it was named after Saint Helena of Constantinople, whose feast day falls on May 21.

History:

• Discovery: The island was uninhabited when discovered by da Nova during his voyage home from India.
• Naming: Named after the revered mother of Emperor Constantine, St. Helena.
• British Rule: Saint Helena came under British control in the 17th century and has since been a strategic naval post and a place of exile, most notably for Napoleon Bonaparte.

Traditions:

• Festivities: The day is marked with celebrations including parades, sports events, and community gatherings.
• Flag Raising: Ceremonies often begin with the raising of the British flag as Saint Helena is a British Overseas Territory.
• Awards and Honours: Recognition may be given to outstanding members of the community.

Activities:

On Saint Helena Day, residents engage in various activities such as:

• Outdoor Events: Family picnics, public performances, live music, and dance.
• Cultural Displays: Showcasing local crafts, history exhibitions and traditional costumes.
• Sports Competitions: Including races, football matches and other sporting events that bring together community members.

The day is seen as an opportunity to celebrate Saint Helenian culture and heritage while fostering a sense of national pride among its inhabitants.