Sao Tome Day in Sao Tome and Principe

Sao Tome Day, celebrated on July 12, is one of the national holidays in Sao Tome and Principe. This day commemorates the independence of Sao Tome and Principe from Portugal in 1975.

History

Before independence, Sao Tome and Principe were Portuguese colonies. The fight for liberation was led by the Movement for the Liberation of São Tomé and Príncipe (MLSTP), which was established in 1960. After years of struggle, the country achieved independence on July 12, 1975, with Manuel Pinto da Costa becoming its first president.

Traditions

On Sao Tome Day, citizens engage in various festivities to celebrate their national identity and freedom. The day is marked by:

• Public Celebrations: Parades and cultural performances take place across the country. These events often feature traditional music and dances that reflect the nation's rich cultural heritage.
• Political Speeches: Government officials deliver speeches reflecting on the country’s history, progress since independence, and future aspirations.
• Community Gatherings: Families and friends come together to enjoy communal meals, often featuring local dishes such as calulu or bacalhau.
• Flag Raising Ceremonies: The national flag is raised in public spaces as a symbol of pride and sovereignty.

What People Do

On this public holiday, people typically have a day off from work. They:

• Attend official ceremonies.
• Participate in or watch parades.
• Engage in social gatherings with friends and family.
• Reflect on their national identity through various forms of celebration that might include music, dance, or sporting events.

Sao Tome Day serves as an important reminder of the island nation's journey to self-governance and its ongoing development as an independent state.