Statia Marks 250 Years of History with a Week-Long Celebration
ORANJESTAD — St. Eustatius marks a historic milestone with Statia Day 250: a week-long programme of music, culture and community celebrating 250 years since the First Salute, from 10 to 16 November 2026.
Under the theme "The Statia Spirit Perseveres," the programme commemorates 250 years since the First Salute to the United States — the event that placed this small Caribbean island at a pivotal moment in the history of the American Revolution.
On 16 November 1776, the American brig Andrew Doria entered the harbour of St. Eustatius and fired a salute. Governor Johannes de Graaff ordered Fort Oranje to return the salute, an event widely recognized as the first formal acknowledgement of the flag of the newly declared United States by a foreign power.
Two and a half centuries later, the island commemorates that moment with seven days of activities, bringing residents and visitors together through music, culture, heritage and community celebrations.
The programme at a glance
The programme opens on Tuesday, 10 November with Roots & Rhythms: Stories Under the Stars, an evening of heritage, people and musical traditions.
On Wednesday, 11 November, Gospel Night will bring the community together around themes of faith, unity and fellowship.
Youth Night, on Thursday, 12 November, will put Statia’s younger generation in the spotlight, celebrating bold voices, creativity and the future of the island.
On Friday, 13 November, the celebrations move to one of Statia’s natural landmarks: the Diamond Water Falls Party, combining nature, music and entertainment.
Culture Night, on Saturday, 14 November, showcases the island’s cultural heritage and community pride, an evening dedicated to Statia’s traditions and identity.
The programme continues on Sunday, 15 November, with All White on the Rock, an evening of music and entertainment set against Statia’s distinctive landscape.
The week culminates on Monday, 16 November with Statia Day 250, the centrepiece of the commemorations, bringing the community together to reflect on Statia’s history and the enduring spirit of its people.
Seven days. One island. 250 years of history. That is the spirit behind Statia Day 250, honouring the past while looking toward the future.
The Government of St. Eustatius invites residents, Statian families abroad, friends of the island and visitors to join in the celebrations and be part of a week to remember.
