National Heroes and Heroines Day is a public holiday in Anguilla, and it is observed on December 19 each year. The holiday commemorates those who played important roles in making Anguilla a better place.
The holiday originally commemorates the official separation of Anguilla from Saint Kitts and Nevis on December 19, 1980. The territory consists of the main island of Anguilla and a number of surrounding small islands and cays.
In 1650, English settlers from Saint Kitts settled on the islands, and Anguilla became a British colony. It was administrated together with other islands during the early colonial period. In 1962, Anguilla gained full internal autonomy with Saint Kitts and Nevis.
In 1967, Anguilla declared its separation from Saint Kitts and Nevis following a referendum. However, on December 19, 1980, Anguilla was allowed to formally secede from Saint Kitts and Nevis and become a separate British Crown colony.
After years of celebration with the name Separation Day, people renamed the holiday National Heroes and Heroines Day.
The festival takes place across the island, and many celebrations, including parades, musical performances, and traditional food fairs, were held during the festival.
The following is the list of National Heroes and Heroines Day in Anguilla from 2022 to 2026.
| Holiday | Date | Weekday |
|---|---|---|
| National Heroes and Heroines Day | Dec 19, 2022 | Monday |
| National Heroes and Heroines Day | Dec 19, 2023 | Tuesday |
| National Heroes and Heroines Day | Dec 19, 2024 | Thursday |
| National Heroes and Heroines Day | Dec 19, 2025 | Friday |
| National Heroes and Heroines Day | Dec 19, 2026 | Saturday |
Please check more public holidays in Anguilla: