Montserrat, known as the “Emerald Isle of the Caribbean,” is gearing up for its 42nd annual St. Patrick’s Festival, set to take place from March 8 to 18, 2024. After a hiatus due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the Montserrat Arts Council has announced an exhilarating and diverse program of events, catering to both daytime and nighttime activities, promising an unforgettable experience for all attendees.
The festival will feature a myriad of exciting events, including the highly anticipated All White Affair, the thrilling Leprechaun’s Revenge, the pulsating Emerald City Reggae Fest, Scriber’s Adventure Hike and Boat Cruise, as well as the iconic St. Patrick’s Day Parade and Heritage Feast. These are just a few highlights from the packed calendar of events that promises to engage and entertain visitors throughout the festival.
It is anticipated that thousands of people, including returning Montserratians, friends of Montserrat, and visitors, will arrive on island to participate in the festivities. Accommodations are filling up rapidly, with some properties fully booked a year in advance. Additionally, car rentals are at capacity, but the Tour and Taxi Association has announced plans to increase their services to shuttle guests to and from the events, ensuring seamless transportation for all attendees.
Montserrat’s celebration of St. Patrick’s Day holds special significance as it commemorates the island’s rich Irish heritage and also serves as a commemoration of the failed slave revolt that was planned for March 17th in 1768. The locals celebrate the bravery of those who fought for their freedom. Notably, Montserrat is also the only country outside of Ireland to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day as a national holiday. The festival has evolved into a vibrant, cultural celebration that honors the island’s unique blend of African and Irish heritage, featuring a fusion of traditional Afro-Caribbean music, dance, and cuisine.
In anticipation of the festival, the Director of Tourism, Mrs. Rosetta West Gerald, commented, “We are looking forward to welcoming both returning as well as first time visitors to Montserrat for the biggest St. Patrick’s Festival in the Caribbean. The island has been eagerly preparing for this momentous occasion, and we are hopeful that this 42nd festival will surpass all expectations. The packed program of events promises something for everyone, ensuring that all who attend will create unforgettable memories on our beautiful island. We look forward to celebrating our rich cultural heritage and the spirit of St. Patrick’s with our local community and visitors from around the world.”
