Battle of St George’s Caye
This was a short military engagement that lasted from 3rd to 10th September 1798, off the coast of what is now called Belize. The name is used for the final battle that took place on 10th September. It is a national public and bank holiday in Belize. The battle took place between an invading force from Mexic, attempting to assert Spanish claims to present-day Belize, and a small force of resident woodcutters called Baymen, who fought for their livelihood assisted by black slaves. After the final two and a half hour battle, ravaged by sickness, the Spaniards withdrew.
Gibraltar National Day
This is the official national day of the territory. It commemorates its first sovereignty referendum of 1967, in which Gibraltarian voters were asked whether they wised to be under Spanish or British sovereignty, with institutions of self-government. They first held the national day on the 25th anniversary in 1992, when they couldn’t fit everyone into John Mackintosh Square to celebrate. Since then it has become a pubic holiday, moved to the larger Grand Casemates Square and then again in 1998 to the even larger Naval Ground.
Events include a children’s fancy dress competition, street parties, Gibraltarian songs and Medallion of Honours handed out by the Mayor as well as the reading of the Gibraltar National Day Declaration. Since 2007 there has been a verbena, and there is a fireworks display followed by a rock concert at night.
World Suicide Prevention Day
Ever year organisations and communities around the world come together to raise awareness of how we can create a world where fewer people die by suicide. Each year has a different theme and focus to bring to light a specific aspect of suicide prevention.
Holidays & Special Events 