What is Bermuda Day?
Bermuda Day, widely considered the first day of summer, is celebrated on May 24th or the weekday nearest May 24th if that date falls on a weekend. Locals line the streets to enjoy a vibrant celebration beginning with a half-marathon derby followed by a colourful parade winding through Hamilton full of music, culture, and patriotic pride. The first Bermuda Day Parade was held in 1979 and remains a steadfast celebration featuring dance groups, bands, majorettes, decorated floats, and Gombey troupes. Traditional floats harken back to the Easter Parade using natural materials, while new categories have been introduced to highlight modern art and the creative ingenuity of Bermudian float-builders. The competition between floats is fierce, as they compete for prizes in a variety of categories. Hundreds of people dance in the streets as the enticing Gombey rhythm carries them forward, united as Bermuda.
Bermuda Day is the culminating event of Heritage Month. For more information on the history of Bermuda Day, Heritage Month, and other Heritage Month events, click here.
Bermuda Day 2017 Theme: Our Sporting Heritage
Wednesday, May 24, 2017
The 2017 Heritage Month theme is a celebration of Bermudian sporting heroes and Bermuda’s favourite sports and games. More than simply a past-time for children, sport has always been an opportunity for demonstrating determination, teaching teamwork, and exemplifying excellence. Whether you reflect on Bermuda’s nautical beginnings and current historic hosting of the America’s Cup, if you are a fan of football, or if you hit sixes at cricket, there is no denying the passion that sport inspires. Even amateur marble players, rope jumpers, and traditional game participants are part of the storied legacy of Bermuda’s sports. From the fierce loyalty to Cup Match teams, to the rallying unity to support a Bermudian Olympian, Bermuda has continued to build a sporting heritage to be proud of.
Bermuda Day Parade 2017 Entry:
Please read the below documents carefully as categories have been added and updated. Attendance at 1 meeting for your category is required. All applications are due on Friday, April 21, 2017. No late entries will be considered. If you have any questions about the below documents, please feel free to contact the Department of Community and Cultural Affairs for more information.
- Bermuda Day Parade Entry Categories (PDF)
- Bermuda Day Parade Application Form and Rules (PDF)
- Bermuda Day Parade Meeting Schedule (PDF)
- Bermuda Day Natural Heritage Float Materials Ideas (PDF)
- Bermuda Day Awards (PDF)
Bermuda Day Parade 2017 Route:
The 2017 Bermuda Day Parade will begin 1:30 PM. The parade will begin along Marsh Folly Road and continue right through to the top of Cedar Avenue. The parade then turns left onto Church Street, takes a right down Court Street, a left along Front Street, and finally up Queen Street. Floats will make a right turn on Church Street, park in front of City Hall and remain there on display throughout the afternoon. Dance groups will have a final performance in City Hall Cark Park. (Dance trucks will turn left onto Wesley Street, then move back through the City via Park Road). Click here to view route map (PDF).
Bermuda Day 2017 Schedule of Events:
Please check back shortly for final times of the 2017 Bermuda Day Celebrations.