Independence Day in The Bahamas
Independence Day in the Bahamas is an event that attracts people from all over the world. Although the holiday officially falls on July 10th every year, the actual celebrations last the entire week.
If July 10th happens to fall on a Sunday, then the week-long festivities will begin on the following Monday. Because this is a public holiday, it’s a day off for the general population, and schools, businesses, and government offices are closed for the day, which is a good thing since there is so much to do on the islands during this event.
The History of Independence Day in the Bahamas
In 1492, Christopher Columbus landed in the Bahamas, becoming the first European to do so. By the beginning of the 18th century, the Bahamas had become a British Crown Colony, and Great Britain used the islands as a point for their anti-pirate suppression tactics.
When the United States won the American War of Independence, some British loyalists relocated to the Bahamas to live there instead. In 1967, the Bahamas achieved majority rule, and the British would grant the country independence on July 10, 1973. On that day, the Bahamas was officially declared an independent nation.
Observing Independence Day in the Bahamas
There are tons of activities that happen in the Bahamas on Independence Day. It’s a day filled with parades, music, dancing, and bands. It’s also a holiday where street vendors serve some of the best food on the island, and government officials and civic leaders make speeches.
As stated earlier, this holiday not only takes place on one day but is enjoyed for an entire week. And when night comes, people can expect some pretty impressive fireworks displays. It’s a day of patriotism for people native to the Bahamas, and for visitors, it’s an impressive holiday to enjoy. On social media, the hashtag #IndependenceDayBahamas can be used to spread the word about this wonderful independence day celebration.