Grenada Independence Day is a public holiday and is celebrated every year on February 7. The day is also celebrated as Grenada’s National Day. This holiday marks Grenada’s independence from Britain on February 7, 1974. If Independence Day of Grenada falls on a weekend, the following Monday is not considered a holiday. The day is observed in various cities across the country with colorful parades and official ceremonies. People dress up, visit their loved ones, make merry, and remember their struggle for freedom. On Independence Day of Grenada, shops, schools, and banks remain closed. Tourists also visit Grenada to partake in the lively occasion.
History of Grenada Independence Day
Before the Europeans arrived in the Americas, Grenada was home to the indigenous peoples from South America. The island of Grenada was sighted by Christopher Columbus in 1498 during his third voyage to the Americas. Since then, Grenada has been under various European occupations since the start of colonization of the new world in the 16th century. In 1649, France assumed full control of the island, becoming one of the wealthiest colonies due to its bountiful sugar production. Following French defeat in the Seven Years’ War, the Treaty of Paris ceded Grenada to Great Britain in 1763. Having overcome a brief rebellion by pro-French forces, Grenada remained a British colony for more than 200 years.
Movements toward independence sprung up in the 1950s and in March 1967, Grenada became an associated state. This status helped them get full autonomy over the nation’s internal affairs. Grenada won its independence from the United Kingdom on February 7, 1974, and Eric Gairy became the first prime minister of the country.
The newly independent country became a member of the Commonwealth while Queen Elizabeth continued to function as the Head of State. In March 1979, Eric Gairy’s government was overthrown in a bloodless coup d’état by the Marxist–Leninist New Jewel Movement. This established the People’s Revolutionary Government. The new government was headed by Maurice Bishop as Prime Minister. Bishop was later arrested and executed by members of the People’s Revolutionary Army, which led to an American invasion in October 1983. Since then, Grenada has returned to electoral democracy and has remained politically stable.
Grenada Independence Day timeline
He sights Grenada on his third voyage and is the first European to do so.
A French expedition of 203 men found a permanent settlement on Grenada.
The British capture Grenada following the victory in the war.
Grenada achieves independence on February 7.
Grenada Independence Day FAQs
What day is Independence Day in Grenada?
Grenada celebrates the day it achieved its independence from the U.K. in 1974 on February 7 each year.
What is the national dish of Grenada?
Oil down is Grenada’s national dish, which is a hearty stew made from salted meat, local vegetables, and spices.
What is the capital of Grenada?
Saint George’s, a town located on the island’s southwestern coast, is the capital city of Grenada.
How to Observe Grenada Independence Day
Wish your Grenadian friends
Wish and congratulate your Grenadian friends on Independence Day of Grenada. Be willing to partake in their Independence Day celebrations.
Since Grenada enjoys a tropical climate, February is the perfect time to visit the country. See its beaches, enjoy the cuisine, and if you are lucky, you will get to attend an Independence Day parade too!
Enjoy Grenadian cuisine
Oil down, a stew, is Grenada’s national dish of salted meat, vegetables, and spices. Enjoy this and more of Grenadian cuisine on Independence Day of Grenada.
5 Facts About Grenada That Will Blow Your Mind
The ‘Island of Spice’
Grenada produces nutmeg, mace, and other spices.
Grenada wasn’t always Grenada
In 1498, Christopher Columbus named the island ‘Concepcion’.
There’s an underwater sculpture park
The underwater art tells Grenada’s cultural and historical stories, and can be viewed via snorkeling and diving excursions.
It's a pretty small country
In terms of area, Grenada is the second-smallest independent country in the western hemisphere.
It has no UNESCO World Heritage sites
Grenada is one of 27 countries that doesn’t have any UNESCO World Heritage sites.
Why Grenada Independence Day is Important
It’s a day of celebrations
Independence Day is celebrated with great aplomb in Grenada. If you can find celebrations in your community, you will understand why this day is so important to Grenadians.
We learn to appreciate different cultures
Independence Day of Grenada reminds us that the world is full of different and interesting cultures. The day encourages us to learn about them.
A day to try something new
Celebrate the day by tasting Grenadian cuisine or listening to Grenadian music. Whatever you pick, Independence Day of Grenada is all about trying something new.
Grenada Independence Day dates