BASSETERRE, St. Kitts —
Warner Park took on a distinctly national character on Saturday night as thousands gathered in national colours for the 43rd Independence Ceremonial Parade.
Held under the theme “One Vision, One People, Endless Possibility: Independence 43,” the evening brought together military tradition, cultural performances and patriotic music as the Federation marked another year of nationhood.
The ceremonial proceedings opened with the participation of armed units from the St. Kitts-Nevis Defence Force (SKNDF) Infantry and Coast Guard Units, the Royal St. Christopher and Nevis Police Force and the SKNDF Cadet Corps.
Among the notable features was the return of SKNDF soldiers dressed in the historical uniform of the 4th West India Regiment and carrying muskets from the period. The presentation, first introduced at the 2025 parade, once again offered spectators a glimpse into the military history associated with the Federation.
Adding an international dimension to the proceedings was a contingent from the Guyana Defence Force (GDF), which joined the local units on parade.
The formal display continued as the armed units marched in slow time past Governor-General, Her Excellency Dame Marcella Liburd, before being joined by the unarmed contingents for the quick-time march.
Representing several public and youth institutions were the St. Kitts and Nevis Fire and Rescue Service, His Majesty’s Prison, the Customs and Excise Department, the St. Christopher Air and Sea Port Authority Police, the Girl Guides and the Brownies.
Throughout the ceremony, the SKNDF Band provided the musical accompaniment, performing familiar military selections including Scipio and Colonel Bogey. The band later shifted from military tradition to local patriotism with a performance of Viva Saint Kitts by the late King Ellie Matt.
The mood at Warner Park changed noticeably as the formal proceedings gave way to the cultural showcase prepared by the Department of Creative Economy.
Local vocalists Venelle Powell, Joyelle Phillip, Vakiel Herbert and reigning Senior Calypso King Tariq “King Drewzy” Drew performed blended sets of songs, while EBJ Harmonics added the distinctive sound of steel pan. Cultural dancers from the Okolo Tegremantine group and others further expanded the presentation.
The performances quickly drew the audience into the celebration. Spectators danced and sang along to familiar songs, while national flags and rags moved throughout.
