British Virgin Islands 2013 Public Holidays

Commemoration of Honourable Hamilton Lavity Stoutt Birthday
This holiday celebrates one of the British Virgin Islands great visionaries who served as an elected member of government for 38 years. Mr. Stoutt was born on March 7, 1929. He was first elected to the Legislative Council, now known as the House of Assembly in 1959. His outstanding pleasing performance prompted his re-election every election term until his death in 1995. He was appointed the minister for a variety of ministries and was Chief Minister for four different terms.

Commonwealth Day
Held every second Monday in March- A day which is used to remember and learn about the commonwealth. Mostly observed by a worldwide organization of former and current British colonies and the United Kingdom. They accept the British monarch as the head of the Commonwealth, but have no central governing body or common laws.

Sovereign's Day
Her Majesty the Queen Birthday is Celebrated in the British Virgin Islands on this day. Many celebration event are held in Road Town, Tortola in honour of her, including a parade display of all uniformed bodies.

Territory Day
This day is in celebration of the British Virgin Islands becoming it's own self governing colony following the de-federation of the Leeward Islands that was created in 1872. Federal legislation no longer existed so local laws now took precedence with the exception of laws from London. Other islands that became separate colonies include St.Kitts & Nevis, Anguilla, Antigua & Barbuda and Montserrat.