Mélange Travel & Lifestyle Magazine January 2020 | Page 122

Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day 2020 on the Emerald Isle Montserrat is the only Caribbean country that observes St. Patrick’s Day with a national holiday and a week of festive activities. The streets of Montserrat transforms into a shimmering sea of green as paraders, spectators and visitors celebrate this island’s Irish history in splendid Caribbean flavour. The history of the Irish on Montserrat dates back to the 17th century when more than half of the population were from Ireland. Today, Irish surnames still remain, Irish descendants still reside on the island and even a shamrock will be stamped on your passport upon entry into Montserrat. Although St. Patrick’s Day is primarily used to observe Montserrat’s Irish ancestry, it is also used to commemorate an unsuccessful slave uprising which took place on St. Patrick’s Day in 1768. The rebellious slaves were executed after the plans were discovered. Their bravery in the quest for freedom is remembered on St. Patrick’s Day. St. Patrick’s week of celebrations is a perfect Caribbean blend of the African and Irish influences that still remain on this British Overseas Territory. Every year, Montserratians return home to join family and friends in this grand celebration. Many visitors also plan their trip to the island to coincide with this festival. So, come on down and celebrate St. Patrick’s Day, the Caribbean way on the Emerald Isle! Celebrate with them, the Caribbean way!