Falklands Day 2022: History & How to Celebrate

Every year on August 14, Falklands Day is observed to honor the 1592 date of the Falkland Islands’ first sighting. The islands were originally seen by John Davis during his expedition, and since since, the occasion has been observed as a kind of heritage day for the locals. Although the Falkland Islands are located off the coast of South America, British rule over them has existed for a while. Even in the 20th century, its history was turbulent. In 2002, Peat Cutting Day took the role of Falklands Day on the calendar. On the first Monday in October, this occurs.

History Of Falklands Day

Falklands Day was once observed as the Falklands’ national day, however it was revoked as a holiday in 2002. It has since been replaced with Liberation Day since it felt more important to commemorate the Falklands War’s conclusion than the day the island was originally discovered in the 1500s. Falklands Day used to be widely observed and regarded as a legal holiday, just like many other national holidays. Families and friends took advantage of the holiday by spending time together, towns celebrated with modest gatherings, and some people even spent the day visiting nearby landmarks and attractions to honor the past.

Falklands Day has been replaced by Liberation Day. As the new national day commemorates the conclusion of the conflict that occurred on the islands, these celebrations have not changed significantly but have instead grown more solemn. The Falklands War, which lasted 10 weeks in 1982, was an unreported conflict. It set Argentina and the United Kingdom against one another over a territorial dispute involving the islands.

Argentina invaded to start hostilities, which prompted Britain to send its own military force to defend the largely British colony that had been established on the territory. When the conflict was finally over, Britain kept control of the island.

Since then, the two governments have continued to disagree on the issue of the sovereignty of Falkland Island. The Falkland Islands are currently mentioned in the constitutions of both Argentina and Britain. They function as an autonomous British Overseas Territory. The inhabitants of the islands have also shown a strong desire for them to continue to be British territories.

Why We Love Falklands Day

1. It Pays Tribute

The existence of a day set aside to honor the history and labor that went into founding the Falkland Islands is crucial in our opinion. On this day, honor someone in your own manner.

2. A Well-Kept Secret

As much as we’d like to keep this lovely location to ourselves, we also want you to enjoy it. The Falkland Islands often feel like a secret to the rest of the world. Falkland Day is a day that raises awareness of the islands.

3. An Excuse To Visit

A further justification for visiting the lovely islands is the holiday and other special occasions. Why not plan a trip and observe this occasion in the community?

5 Facts About The Falkland That Will Surprise You

1. A Home Away From Home

The Falkland Islands, which are governed by Britain, are located 8,050 miles from Britain but only 300 miles from the coast of Patagonia.

2. Stanley Is The Place To Be

The major city of the island, Stanley, is home to about half of its inhabitants.

3. Abundant Wildlife

Millions of penguins and other regional birds call the islands home.

4. Sheep Farmers

The remainder of the population is mostly found outside of Stanley in the small, remote communities that raise sheep for the island’s primary export, sheep’s wool.

5. A Delicate Balance

Although there is little unemployment in the Falklands, there is a housing shortage that deters immigration.

Falklands Day Activities

1. Pay Respects

Monuments honoring the soldiers and citizens who lost their lives during the brief battle there may be found all throughout the islands. Whether you are a resident or a visitor, remembering the deceased is a fitting approach to observe Falklands Day.

2. Go To The Museum

Visits to museums are the best method to commemorate history. The Historic Dockyard Museum is the best location for learning about the history of the island.

3. Enjoy The Sights

Take use of the day to explore nearby sights like the numerous shipwrecks off the island’s shore, breathtaking hikes across the countryside, or historic sites.

Falklands Day FAQS

What Is The Religion In The Falkland Islands?

The majority of islands either identify as Christians or as atheists.

Why Is The Island Called Falkland?

John Strong, an English captain, gave the strait the name Falkland in honor of his patron, Viscount of Falkland.

Where Are The Falkland Islands?

Off the coast of Patagonian, the islands are located in the South Atlantic Ocean.

Is Falkland Day A Day Off?

Even if you live on the island, Falkland Day is no longer recognized as a legal holiday, thus you cannot take the day off of work.

Falklands Day Dates

Date	Day	Year
August 14	Sunday	2022
August 14	Monday	2023
August 14	Wednesday	2024
August 14	Thursday	2025
August 14	Friday	2026

Conclusion

The history of the Falklands is not new. Many wars have been fought on this land and its people. However, despite being a disputed territory, the islands continue to stand strong today as an independent nation with their own distinct culture. So, when you plan your trip down south in don’t forget to visit these islands that have seen so much turmoil.

But before you head off on your adventure, make sure that you check out our blog for detailed information about what to expect from the day ahead.

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