Dominica National Day

Dominica National Day

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  1. 1978Independence from the United Kingdom
  2. 1967Associated statehood
  3. 1978First Independence Day

The story behind the day

Dominica celebrates Independence Day on 3 November, marking independence from the United Kingdom in 1978. The date is the centre of a wider Independence season that often begins weeks earlier.

The celebrations emphasise Creole identity, language, traditional dress, music and village life. It is one of the Caribbean national days where cultural heritage is especially visible.

Today Roseau and communities across the island mark the holiday with parades, cultural galas, Creole food fairs, music and national dress. The season overlaps with World Creole Music Festival, giving the island a strong cultural rhythm.

  1. 20263 November 2026 · Tuesday
  2. 20273 November 2027 · Wednesday
  3. 20283 November 2028 · Friday
The flag
Dominica flag

Dominica's flag has a green field, a cross of yellow, black and white, and a red disc with a Sisserou parrot and ten stars. The design highlights the island's nature, people and parishes.

Dominica's Independence food is Creole, earthy and local, with root crops, fish, herbs and stews.

What to eat

Callaloo soupLeafy green soup often made with coconut milk
Mountain chickenTraditional frog dish, now protected and rarely eaten
Green fig and saltfishBoiled green banana with salted cod
Creole fishFish cooked with herbs, peppers and tomato
BakesFried dough served with fish or cheese
Coconut tabletSweet coconut confection

What to drink

SorrelSpiced hibiscus drink
Cocoa teaWarm drink made from local cocoa sticks
Rum punchCaribbean celebration drink
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Culture on National Day

Dominica's Independence season is a showcase of Creole language, music and nature-island pride.

National dressMadras clothing is worn during the season
Creole DayLanguage and food are celebrated in schools and villages
World Creole Music FestivalA major music event near Independence season
Sisserou parrotThe national bird appears at the centre of the flag