Preparations are moving steadily for Saint Lucia’s Independence Parade, one of the most highly anticipated activities on the national calendar marking the island’s independence celebrations. The parade, which brings together uniformed groups, cultural performers, schools and community organizations, is widely regarded as a strong expression of national pride, unity and cultural heritage.
On January 30, a production site visit was conducted at the Micoud Playing Field ahead of the parade, which is scheduled for February 22. The visit involved the production team from the Events Company of Saint Lucia, Parliamentary Representative for Micoud North Jeremiah Norbert, and members of the constituency group. The exercise formed part of the logistical and technical planning to ensure the venue is fully prepared to host the national event.
Production Manager at the Events Company of Saint Lucia, Kayode Francois, explained that the site visit was essential to assessing layout, crowd flow, staging, security and broadcast requirements. He noted that the company plays a central role in the coordination and execution of the Independence Parade, along with several other national activities on the Independence calendar, working closely with government agencies, communities and stakeholders to deliver a safe, well-organized and memorable experience for participants and patrons.
“The purpose of the site visit is to evaluate the venue in detail and align all technical and operational elements ahead of the event,” Francois said. “As the national events agency, our role is to ensure that the Independence Parade meets the highest standards in production, safety and presentation, while showcasing the spirit and culture of Saint Lucia.”
In recent years, the Government of Saint Lucia has adopted a deliberate approach to decentralizing the Independence Parade, allowing communities across the island to share in hosting this flagship national celebration. In 2024, the parade was staged in Soufriere, while the 2025 edition was held at the Daren Sammy Cricket Ground. In earlier years, the event traditionally took place at the Sab Playing Field and Mindoo Philip Park in Castries.
Commenting on Micoud’s selection as host for the 2026 parade, Parliamentary Representative Jeremiah Norbert welcomed the opportunity, describing it as a reflection of the government’s commitment to inclusivity and balanced national development.
“Hosting the Independence Parade in Micoud is a proud moment for our constituency,” Norbert said. “The government’s focus on inclusivity ensures that communities outside of Castries are given the chance to participate meaningfully in national celebrations. Independence belongs to all Saint Lucians, and bringing the parade to different parts of the island strengthens that sense of shared ownership and unity.”
The February 22 parade at the Micoud Playing Field is expected to draw large crowds, as residents and visitors gather to celebrate Saint Lucia’s journey, achievements and cultural identity as part of the island’s Independence celebrations.
Saint Lucia gained independence from Great Britain on February 22nd, 1979 and became a sovereign nation within the Commonwealth, ending over two centuries of British rule, while still remaining a parliamentary democracy.
