Mr. Speaker, it is with immense pride and gratitude that I rise today to reflect on the unforgettable celebration that was the 2025 Bermuda Day Parade. Though set against unpredictable weather, this year’s parade captured the power of community, the richness of our culture, and the bold promise of our future. With “The Future is Now” as our theme, Bermudians rose to the occasion and turned imagination into reality.
Mr. Speaker, the streets of Hamilton came alive with the sounds, colours, and creativity of our people. This year’s parade saw remarkable participation, and the route was lined with families, friends, and visitors all soaking in the experience. From the very first beat to the last Gombey step, the 2025 Bermuda Day Parade delivered something special—an honest and joyful collision of heritage and innovation.
Mr. Speaker, this year we witnessed the resurgence of one of Bermuda’s most beloved parade traditions: the majorette. Leading the charge were the PHC Majorettes & Drum Corps, long-standing bearers of the tradition, joined by a strong showing of new and returning troupes: Warwick United Majorettes & Drum Corps (celebrating their 50th anniversary), the Ex-Artillery Elite Majorettes, Devonshire Ultimate “STAR” Twirlers & Drum Corp Band, Hamilton Parish Community Hot Peppers, and the St. George's Original Dancerettes—a proud programme of the Office of Youth Affairs. Their energy, precision, and presence were unmatched.
Mr. Speaker, the performances didn’t stop there. We were thrilled to welcome back United Dance Productions, who continue to raise the bar with their choreographic brilliance. We thank groups like Sui Generis (pronounced: sue generous) for persevering in participation, even when odds were against them in preparation stages. Rated E brought their trademark infectious energy and youthful spirit, and there were many other dance groups and participants worth celebrating.
Mr. Speaker, this year’s floats captured the theme with bold imagination. From the futuristic to the fantastical, they were shining examples of what happens when community pride meets creative daring. The Association of Filipinos in Bermuda stunned spectators with intricate, hand-crafted costumes designed by their president, Ryan de Jesus. The Department of Culture, in collaboration with Bermudian artisan Ian Tucker, featured a striking futuristic Gombey—his vision of what cultural continuity might look like.
Mr. Speaker, CedarBridge Academy once again impressed with an ambitious and visually captivating float that even featured a blimp. It was a technical feat and a crowd favourite, showcasing the innovation and talent of our youth in real time.
Mr. Speaker, no parade would be complete without the many walking groups that bring stories, identity, and legacy to the road. This year we saw groups celebrating milestone anniversaries—like Bermuda College—as well as proud organisations like the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, who marched alongside their award-winning float with joy and intention. As Minister with responsibility for Sport, I was especially pleased to see Department of Sport & Recreation, Western Stars, and the Endeavour Programme take part— demonstrating how sport and culture complement each other beautifully in the public space.
Mr. Speaker, the Bermuda Day Fund once again made meaningful participation possible for many of this year’s entries. A total of 20 entries were supported through this fund, allowing organisations across the island to bring their ideas to life. This vital resource continues to break down barriers and ensure our parade is as inclusive and dynamic as our people.
Mr. Speaker, this year’s Grand Marshals represent the spectrum of Bermudian excellence—visionaries in media, culture, youth leadership, financial literacy, and technology:
- Glenn Jones: A distinguished career in communication and influence.
- Eugene O'Connor: Bermuda's esteemed kite master and cultural guardian.
- McKenzie-Kohl Tuckett: Championing change and empowering the next generation.
- Seldon Woolridge: Fusing arts, culture, and financial acumen.
- Coral Wells: Pioneering the future of tech in Bermuda. Each of them exemplifies what “The Future is Now” looks like in action.
Mr. Speaker, our Gombey tradition continues to evolve in exciting ways. This year, some troupes joined the festivities along the route, adding vibrant bursts of culture throughout the day. As is tradition, the Gombeys brought the parade to its official close with unmatched passion and pageantry. Their rhythmic beats echoed through the streets, a powerful reminder that even as we look ahead, our cultural roots remain deeply grounded.
Mr. Speaker, while that marked the end of the official parade, the celebrations didn’t stop there. Thanks to a partnership between D’General, The Department of Culture, and One Communications, an incredible after-party truck kept the energy high and the music pumping—providing the perfect close to a phenomenal Bermuda Day. It was a finale that reflected exactly what this year’s theme stood for: where we’ve been, and where we’re going.
Mr. Speaker, I extend sincere thanks to the team behind the scenes at the Department of Culture, led this year by Acting Director Ms. Carlita Lodge. I also offer deep appreciation to the Department’s Temporary Relief Cultural Programme Manager, Mr. Aden Peets, who stepped in and stepped up—bringing the heart of an artist to the planning and delivery of an outstanding Bermuda Day celebration.
Mr. Speaker, Bermuda Day 2025 has set a new standard—not just in creativity or execution, but in how we honour the past while stepping fully into the future. I thank every participant, organiser, and supporter who helped make this year’s event so meaningful.
Here’s to the continued celebration of our culture, our resilience, and our endless potential. Bermuda, the future is now.
Thank you, Mr. Speaker.