December 9

V.C. Bird Day

Let's honor the legacy of V.C. Bird on this special day - a true leader and visionary who shaped our nation for the better!

Yearly Date
December 9
Type
Day
Category
Federal

Introduction

On December 9, we celebrate the life and legacy of V.C. Bird on V.C. Bird Day! This day is named after Sir Vere Cornwall Bird Sr., who was a prominent Antiguan politician and the first Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda. He played a crucial role in the country's independence movement and is still remembered as a beloved leader by many today. On this day, we honor his contributions to his nation and reflect on the values he stood for – including unity, progress, and equality for all. So let's take a moment to pay tribute to this remarkable figure and continue his legacy of making our world a better place.

V.C. Bird Day Timeline

1910
Birth of V.C. Bird
Born on December 9, 1910, Vere Cornwall (V.C.) Bird would later become a significant figure in Antigua and Barbuda's political history.
1946
Founding of the ALP
V.C. Bird founded the Antigua Labour Party (ALP), promoting workers' rights and political reform, and highlighting his commitment to social justice.
1967
Becomes First Premier
Following Antigua's achievement of full internal self-governance, Bird became the country's first Premier.
1981
Independence and First Prime Minister
When Antigua and Barbuda gained independence, Bird took office as the nation's first Prime Minister, a testament to his leadership.
1994
Retirement from Politics
Bird retired from politics, marking the end of his extraordinary political career and his significant contributions to the country's development.
2014
Inaugural V.C. Bird Day
Antigua and Barbuda celebrated the first V.C. Bird Day, continuing to honor Bird's legacy and reflect on the values he embodied.

How to Celebrate V.C. Bird Day

1

Attend a parade

Celebrate V.C. Bird Day by attending a local parade. Enjoy the colorful floats, music, and lively atmosphere while honoring the life and achievements of V.C. Bird.

2

Visit a historical site

Learn more about V.C. Bird's legacy by visiting a historical site related to his life and accomplishments. This could be a museum, monument, or other important location.

3

Have a traditional Antiguan meal

Sample some delicious Antiguan cuisine in honor of V.C. Bird Day. This could include dishes like saltfish and ducana, fungee and pepperpot, or conch fritters.

4

Organize a community service project

Pay tribute to V.C. Bird's commitment to public service by organizing a community service project. This could be volunteering at a local charity or organizing a neighborhood clean-up.

5

Host a trivia night

Gather some friends and test your knowledge of V.C. Bird and Antiguan history with a fun trivia night. You can even offer prizes for the winners!

Why V.C. Bird Day is Important

A

It celebrates a great leader

V.C. Bird Day is dedicated to Sir Vere Cornwall Bird, who served as the first Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda. He led his country through significant changes and improvements, making him an important figure in its history.

B

It promotes unity and patriotism

V.C. Bird Day is not only a celebration of one person, but also a celebration of the nation of Antigua and Barbuda. It brings people together and instills a sense of pride in their country, fostering unity and patriotism among citizens.

C

It educates about the country's history

V.C. Bird Day serves as an opportunity to learn more about the history of Antigua and Barbuda and the impact that Sir Vere Cornwall Bird had on the country. It is a reminder of the progress made and serves as inspiration for the future.

V.C. Bird Day Dates

Year
Date
Day
2023
Dec 8
Friday
2024
Dec 8
Sunday
2025
Dec 8
Monday
2026
Dec 8
Tuesday
2027
Dec 8
Wednesday