São Tomé and Príncipe became an independent nation on 12th July 1975. Independence Day is a national public holiday, which means schools, offices and most businesses close so everyone can join in the celebrations. For many families, it is the day they feel most proud to be from these islands.
Celebrations typically include parades through the main streets of São Tomé city, with marching bands, performers in traditional dress and groups carrying the national flag - which is green and yellow with a red triangle and three black stars representing the two main islands and a smaller island called Rolas.
Music is at the heart of Independence Day. Stages are set up in public squares where bands play traditional island music as well as more modern styles. People dance in the streets, children wave flags and there is always a sense of great community and shared pride.
Schools in the days before Independence Day often put on special performances, displays and art projects about the history and identity of São Tomé and Príncipe. Children learn songs about the islands and make flags and decorations to take part in the celebrations.