National Parks, Rivers and Beaches Authority Embarks on Tree-Planting Initiative for the 260th Anniversary of the St. Vincent Botanical Gardens
As part of the year-long celebrations marking the 260th Anniversary of the St. Vincent Botanical Gardens, the National Parks, Rivers and Beaches Authority (NPRBA) has launched a meaningful and environmentally focused tree-planting initiative across St. Vincent.
This initiative underscores the Authority’s ongoing commitment to environmental stewardship, biodiversity conservation, and community engagement. In recognition of this historic milestone, trees were planted at various schools and public sites throughout the island. 
Participating schools and locations included the St. Vincent Grammar School, Intermediate High School, C.W. Prescod Primary School, Kingstown Government School, St. Martin’s Secondary School, Barrouallie Anglican School, Barrouallie Secondary School, Langley Park Government School, Sandy Bay Secondary School, Westwood Primary School, Diamonds Government School, New Grounds Primary School, Greiggs Primary School, Lauders Primary School, and Spring Village Primary School. Tree-planting activities were also conducted at Bamboo Range, the Joseph Chatoyer National Park, and the Mt. Wynne Beach Facility.
Each site was carefully selected based on its community impact, educational value, and alignment with the Authority’s environmental stewardship priorities.
The program brought together key partners who share a vision for a greener, more climate-resilient St. Vincent and the Grenadines. NPRBA collaborated with
Zero Hunger Trust Fund and Forestry Department.
Together, these entities supported the distribution and planting of a variety of tree species, helping to expand green spaces, encourage environmental awareness, and foster a culture of conservation among young people and local communities.
This initiative not only celebrates the legacy of the Botanical Gardens, the oldest in the Western Hemisphere, but also ensures that future generations continue to enjoy a vibrant, flourishing natural environment.
The tree-planting exercise forms part of NPRBA’s broader mandate to protect and enhance the nation’s natural heritage, and it will continue throughout the anniversary period with additional community involvement and educational activities.
As part of the year-long celebrations marking the 260th Anniversary of the St. Vincent Botanical Gardens, the National Parks, Rivers and Beaches Authority (NPRBA) has launched a meaningful and environmentally focused tree-planting initiative across St. Vincent.
This initiative underscores the Authority’s ongoing commitment to environmental stewardship, biodiversity conservation, and community engagement. In recognition of this historic milestone, trees were planted at various schools and public sites throughout the island.
Participating schools and locations included the St. Vincent Grammar School, Intermediate High School, C.W. Prescod Primary School, Kingstown Government School, St. Martin’s Secondary School, Barrouallie Anglican School, Barrouallie Secondary School, Langley Park Government School, Sandy Bay Secondary School, Westwood Primary School, Diamonds Government School, New Grounds Primary School, Greiggs Primary School, Lauders Primary School, and Spring Village Primary School. Tree-planting activities were also conducted at Bamboo Range, the Joseph Chatoyer National Park, and the Mt. Wynne Beach Facility.
Each site was carefully selected based on its community impact, educational value, and alignment with the Authority’s environmental stewardship priorities.
The program brought together key partners who share a vision for a greener, more climate-resilient St. Vincent and the Grenadines. NPRBA collaborated with
Zero Hunger Trust Fund and Forestry Department.
Together, these entities supported the distribution and planting of a variety of tree species, helping to expand green spaces, encourage environmental awareness, and foster a culture of conservation among young people and local communities.
This initiative not only celebrates the legacy of the Botanical Gardens, the oldest in the Western Hemisphere, but also ensures that future generations continue to enjoy a vibrant, flourishing natural environment.
The tree-planting exercise forms part of NPRBA’s broader mandate to protect and enhance the nation’s natural heritage, and it will continue throughout the anniversary period with additional community involvement and educational activities.
This year marks a major milestone for one of our nation’s most anticipated holiday events, the 10th Anniversary of the Botanical Garden Nine Nights of Lights! Set against the stunning backdrop of the Botanical Gardens, this year’s celebration promises to be the most magical edition yet, uniting families, friends, and visitors in a grand showcase of culture, community, and Christmas spirit.
From December 15th to 3rd, 2025, the Gardens will once again come alive each evening with dazzling lights, festive music, local cuisine, and captivating performances. For the past decade, Nine Nights of Lights has grown from a small scale gathering into a cherished national tradition that highlights the creativity and togetherness that define the Vincentian spirit.
A Decade of Joy and Tradition
This year’s theme, “A Celebration of Culture, Community and Christmas,” pays tribute to the event’s roots and evolution. Over the years, Nine Nights of Lights has become more than just a festival of lights, it’s a platform where local artisans, musicians, dancers, and cultural groups come together to share their talents and spread holiday cheer.
Visitors can look forward to nightly themes, vibrant stage performances, local cuisine, and special attractions for children. From steel pan melodies to traditional dances, every night will tell a different story of Vincentian heritage and culture.
Lighting Up the Holidays
The highlight of the festival remains the breathtaking lighting displays that transform the Gardens into a glowing wonderland, featuring key attractions such as the center aisle and the pond. Families are encouraged to stroll through the sparkling pathways, take in the magical sights, and capture unforgettable memories beneath the twinkling canopy of lights.
A Gift to the Community
Admission to Nine Nights of Lights continues to be affordable, with entry fees of $5 for children and $10 for adults. The event begins at 7:00 p.m. each night, offering a full evening of entertainment and holiday magic for the whole family to enjoy.
This family- friendly celebration is made possible through the generous support of local sponsors, volunteer, and cultural organisations . As we mark 10 years of celebrations, the organizing committee extends heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has contributed to the success of Nine Nights of Lights since its inception.
This 10th Anniversary promises special surprises, new features, and moments of nostalgia for all who have made Nine Nights of Lights part of their holiday tradition. So, mark your calendars, gather your loved ones, and get ready to experience the magic once more because Nine Nights of Lights 2025 will be a celebration to remember!