Date
Saturday
May
24

May 24

Bermuda Day

Get ready to soak up the sun and embrace island vibes on Bermuda Day - a celebration of culture, heritage, and all things tropical!

Yearly Date
May 24
Type
Day
Category
Federal
Country
Bermuda

Introduction

Get ready to celebrate the vibrant culture and traditions of Bermuda on May 24, also known as Bermuda Day! This public holiday has been celebrated since the early 20th century and is a time for locals and visitors alike to come together and enjoy parades, music, food, and other festivities. The day holds special significance as it marks the anniversary of the first British settlement in Bermuda back in 1612. From traditional Gombey dancers to delicious fish cakes, there's so much to love about this lively and colorful celebration. So let's raise a glass (or two) and toast to Bermuda Day!

Bermuda Day Timeline

1947
Empire Day Origin
Bermuda Day was initially celebrated as Empire Day in honor of Queen Victoria's birthday on May 24.
1968
Change to Commonwealth Day
Empire Day was renamed to Commonwealth Day and was observed on the second Monday in March. Bermuda continued to celebrate it on May 24th instead.
1979
First Bermuda Day
Commonwealth Day in Bermuda was officially renamed to Bermuda Day, celebrating Bermudian culture, heritage and the arrival of summer.
2009
Marathon Derby Tradition
The Bermuda Day Half Marathon is introduced as an annual tradition, setting the stage for a major sports event on Bermuda Day.
2018
Date change legislation
Legislation is introduced to move Bermuda Day to the last Friday in May, as an attempt to provide a more relaxed long weekend for the celebration.

How to Celebrate Bermuda Day

1

Attend a parade

Bermuda Day is known for its vibrant and lively parade. Grab a spot on the sidelines and enjoy the colorful floats, energetic dancers, and lively music.

2

Try traditional Bermudian dishes

Take the opportunity to try some delicious traditional dishes such as codfish cakes, peas and rice, and fish chowder. You can either make them yourself or visit a local restaurant to taste the authentic flavors of Bermuda.

3

Join a beach party

Head to one of Bermuda’s beautiful beaches and join in on the beach parties happening throughout the day. You can dance, swim, play games, and enjoy the festive atmosphere with locals and tourists alike.

4

Watch a Gombey performance

Don’t miss the opportunity to witness a traditional Gombey performance, which combines vibrant costumes, music, and dance. These performances are an important part of Bermuda's culture and are not to be missed on Bermuda Day.

5

Explore the island by bike

Rent a bike and explore the beautiful island of Bermuda at your own pace. You can discover hidden beaches, scenic viewpoints, and charming villages while getting some exercise and enjoying the warm weather.

Why Bermuda Day is Important

A

Celebrating Bermuda's culture and heritage

Bermuda Day is a day to recognize and celebrate the rich history and cultural traditions of Bermuda. From traditional food, music, and dance, to showcasing local talent and art, this holiday allows Bermudans to share their unique cultural identity with the world.

B

Uniting the community

As a public holiday, Bermuda Day brings people together to participate in various events and activities, such as parades, races, and community gatherings. It's a time for locals and tourists alike to come together and celebrate the island's spirit of unity and camaraderie.

C

Honoring those who have contributed to Bermuda's success

Bermuda Day also serves as an opportunity to recognize and thank individuals who have made significant contributions to the island's growth and prosperity. This can include leaders, activists, and everyday citizens who have had a positive impact on Bermuda's development.

Bermuda Day Dates

Year
Date
Day
2023
May 23
Tuesday
2024
May 23
Thursday
2025
May 23
Friday
2026
May 23
Saturday
2027
May 23
Sunday