Saint Ursula's Day in British Virgin Islands

Saint Ursula's Day, celebrated on October 21st, is a public holiday in the British Virgin Islands (BVI), commemorating the patron saint of the territory, Saint Ursula. The day honors the legend of Saint Ursula, a Christian martyr said to have been killed along with 11,000 virgin companions by Huns in the 4th or 5th century.

History and Traditions

The history of this day is closely tied to Christopher Columbus, who named the archipelago "Las Once Mil Vírgenes," referring to Saint Ursula and her virgin followers. This name was later anglicized to "The Virgin Islands."

Traditionally, celebrations for Saint Ursula's Day include:

• Church Services: Residents attend special church services to pay homage to Saint Ursula.
• Parades: Parades are often held with colorful costumes and vibrant music.
• Cultural Displays: These commemorate BVI heritage, including music and dance performances that reflect the islands' history.
• Festivals: Local festivals may take place featuring food stalls, crafts, games, and activities for children.

Activities

On Saint Ursula’s Day:

• People enjoy a day off from work as it is a public holiday.
• Families and friends gather for communal meals and festivities.
• Community awards are sometimes presented to individuals or groups for their service or contributions to society.

The celebrations also serve as an opportunity for residents to showcase their national pride and cultural identity through various events across the islands.