Statia schedules First Salute anniversary programme from 10 to 16 November

St. Eustatius is scheduled to hold seven nights of cultural events and performances from Tuesday 10 November to Monday 16 November to mark 250 years since the First Salute. The Statia Day 2026 programme is themed “The Statia Spirit Perseveres: Saluting 250 Years.”

The First Salute took place on 16 November 1776, when the American naval vessel Andrew Doria fired a ceremonial salute after entering St. Eustatius harbour. Fort Oranje, acting on orders from Governor Johannes de Graaff, responded with an 11-gun salute, according to the programme.

Events from 10 to 15 November are scheduled to begin at 7pm on Fort Oranje Straat. The programme opens with Roots and Rhythm on 10 November, including the Statia String Band and a performance of This Is Statia by the Aloë Performing School of Arts.

Gospel Night on 11 November is set to include Guyanese artist Samuel Medas and his band. Youth Night follows on 12 November, while the Diamond Waterfall Party on 13 November lists Turbulence Band, Rebels Band and Aruba’s NBO Band.

Culture Night is scheduled for 14 November, followed by All White on the Rock on 15 November. Statia Day on 16 November is to include Energy Band, Justice Band, Barbados’ Crossfire Band, Jam Boys Band and a fireworks display.