Barbados will celebrate its 60th Anniversary of Independence on November 30th, 2026, with the theme "Gathering as One Nation," featuring year-long "On the Road to 60" activities which started December 1st, 2025. The main events include a grand Independence Parade at the Garrison Savannah with military, police and cadet units, alongside special events like NIFCA.
Key details regarding the 60th Anniversary celebrations:
- Main Independence Parade: The traditional, high-profile event takes place on November 30th, 2026, at the Garrison Savannah. This parade features much fanfare, pomp and ceremony with marching bands including the Barbados Defence Force, Barbados Regiment, the Barbados Police Service and Band, cadets, scouts, girl guides and the Barbados Landship, as well as the raising of the national flag.
- Additional Activities: The celebrations include the National Independence Festival of Creative Arts (NIFCA), https://ncf.bb/the-story-of-nifca/, and other events such as the Courts 60th Anniversary Lighted Parade.
- Cultural Focus: Events emphasise national pride, with the diaspora encouraged to participate, following the 2021 transition to a Parliamentary Republic.
White, blue and yellow lights will adorn public buildings and roundabouts across the island, signifying the colours of the national flag.
The celebrations are designed to be a major milestone for the nation, blending traditional military parades with community-focused cultural events.
