Puerto Rico Friendship Day is celebrated in the U.S. Virgin Islands. This holiday was officially established in 1964 to honor the cultural, historical, and familial ties between Puerto Ricans and Virgin Islanders.

When is Puerto Rico Friendship Day?

Puerto Rico Friendship Day is observed on the second Monday in October, the same day as Columbus Day in the United States.

The following is the list of Puerto Rico Friendship Day from 2020 to 2049.

The History of Puerto Rico Friendship Day?

Puerto Rico Friendship Day honors the long-standing friendship and shared heritage between Puerto Ricans and Virgin Islanders, especially on the island of St. Croix, where many Puerto Ricans have lived and contributed for generations.

In the early 20th century, Puerto Ricans migrated to the Virgin Islands, especially to St. Croix, to work in sugar plantations, oil refineries, and other industries. Over time, they became deeply integrated into the Virgin Islands' society economically, socially, and politically.

Many Puerto Rican families intermarried with Virgin Islanders, helping to shape the modern cultural identity of the islands.

Recognizing this significant contribution and the cultural closeness between the two island communities, Governor Ralph M. Paiewonsky proclaimed the second Monday in October as Puerto Rico Friendship Day in 1964.

It was created to recognize and celebrate the contributions of Puerto Ricans living in the Virgin Islands, particularly on St. Croix, where a significant Puerto Rican population has resided for over a century.

The day serves as a symbol of Caribbean unity, reflecting the values of friendship, mutual respect, and cultural collaboration.