The flag of Barbados features a blue background with a trident in the center. The trident is made up of three prongs. They represent the three principles of democracy: government of the people, by the people, and for the people. A golden-yellow circle surrounds the trident with two golden-yellow bands on either side.

The blue color on the flag represents the sea and the sky, which are important elements of the Barbadian landscape and culture. The golden-yellow color represents the sand of the island’s beaches. It also symbolizes the sun, which is an important part of Barbadian life. Barbados features the trident, a national symbol, on its coat of arms.

Barbados adopted the current design of its flag on November 30, 1966. This occurred when Barbados gained independence from the United Kingdom. A national competition attracted over a thousand entries to choose the design.