For Montserratians, St. Patrick’s Day isn’t just about shamrocks and parades—it’s a day rooted in history and identity. Montserrat is the only place outside Ireland where March 17th is a national holiday, but our connection to the date goes beyond Irish influence. It marks the anniversary of a planned uprising in 1768, when enslaved Africans on the island sought to claim their freedom. Though the rebellion was suppressed, the spirit of resistance never faded. Today, we honour that resilience alongside the cultural connections that shape Montserrat, blending African traditions with echoes of Irish influence.
This year, the Montserrat Government UK Office (MGUKO) was proud to bring Montserrat’s story to Brent’s Multicultural St. Patrick’s Day Celebration, an event that reflected the many ways different communities mark the occasion. It was a brilliant opportunity to share our island’s unique heritage with a wider audience and connect with those who embrace the richness of cultural exchange.
A massive thank you to Cllr Ryan, Cllr Orleen, and Cllr Hack for curating a celebration that recognised the depth of St. Patrick’s Day beyond the traditional. It was also fantastic to meet Mayor of Brent, Cllr Tariq Dar, and reconnect with Dawn Butler MP, a dedicated advocate for Caribbean communities in the UK. Engaging with representatives from the Irish Embassy further reinforced the shared threads that tie Montserrat’s story to the wider world.
Montserratian culture came to life at the event—not just through storytelling, but through the universal languages of music and food. It was a joy to see the crowd jamming to the legendary sounds of Arrow, our soca king whose music continues to bring people together across generations and borders.
Equally, the flavours of Montserrat made their mark, thanks to Emerald Spice Catering and Savour Me Bakery, who served up authentic island cuisine to the Brent community. Their dishes weren’t just about great food—they were a reminder of how culture travels, connects, and evolves while staying true to its roots.
Being part of events like Brent’s St. Patrick’s Day celebration gives Montserrat a space to share its story beyond the usual circles, strengthening connections and raising awareness of our heritage. It’s about ensuring that Montserrat’s culture and contributions aren’t just remembered within our own communities but recognised and appreciated on a broader stage.
A heartfelt thank you to everyone who made this event possible. As we continue to share Montserrat’s story, we look forward to more opportunities to connect, celebrate, and keep our culture alive in new spaces.
Happy St. Patrick’s Day!
