Official Launch of the 51st Independence Celebrations Logo and Theme

NASSAU, BAHAMAS – In 2023, the Bahamian spirit soared as we celebrated our 50th Independence Anniversary with vibrant rhythms of Junkanoo, heartfelt cultural productions, and moments of sheer joy and national pride.

Our year of festivities showcased our national grandeur through art, fashion,
music, drama, and culinary delights, uniting Bahamians everywhere in the spirit of
independence.

We honoured our past, rejoiced in our present, and envisioned a bright future.

As we embark on our 51st year of independence, we are proud to unveil the theme for this
year’s celebrations: “One People: United in Love and Service.” This theme calls us to reaffirm
our commitment to Bahamian pride, our faith, and our rich heritage. It urges us to focus on the
commonalities that unite us, rather than the differences that divide us.

It reminds us to take pride in our Bahamian identity, letting that pride inspire us to serve our country, support our fellow citizens, and collaborate towards a better, safer, cleaner, and more prosperous Bahamas.

This year, we challenge ourselves to strive for excellence to make our nation better. Let us raise
our heads high, march forward, and unite in love and service. Let us choose love, choose
service, and focus on unity.

Together, we will make our country a beacon of pride and progress,
a place where our heritage is honoured, our traditions are cherished, and our future shines
brightly.

As we approach the 51st Independence celebrations, the Bahamas is set to come alive with a
series of events that embody national pride, unity, and community spirit.

● Friday, June 28, 2024: National Flag Day Kick off the festivities by donning the vibrant
national colours of aquamarine, gold, and black. Bahamians everywhere are encouraged
to proudly showcase their love for the Bahamas through their attire, creating a stunning
display of national pride.

● Saturday, June 29, 2024: National Buy Bahamian Day Celebrates the entrepreneurial
spirit, resilience, and innovation of Bahamian businesses. From farmers’ markets to
fishing docks to retail shops, support local enterprises today. By doing so, we not only
bolster our economy but also keep the Bahamian dream of ownership, enterprise, and
economic independence alive.

● Sunday, June 30, 2024: Beat Retreat Experience a ceremonial event at Parliament and
Rawson Squares starting at 6pm. The annual Beat Retreat will feature captivating
performances by the Royal Bahamas Police Force and Defense Force. This traditional
display of discipline, precision, and musical talent celebrates our nation’s heritage.

● Monday, July 1, 2024: National Day of Prayer and Reflection Dedicate the day to
spiritual reflection and prayer, inviting Bahamians to unite in faith, seeking blessings and
guidance for the nation’s future. Additionally, on this momentous day, each district will
meticulously curate and seal a unique time capsule. These capsules will remain closed
until the grand celebration of the nation’s Diamond Jubilee in 2048, symbolising a
reflection on our rich history and remarkable achievements.

● Tuesday, July 2, 2024: National Day of the Family Celebrates the significance of the
Bahamian family with a national call to action to strengthen familial bonds. Let’s restore
the family as the cornerstone of our community by fostering integrity, ethics, discipline,
and pride. Spend time with your family by sharing a meal, discussing current issues,
playing Bahamian games, and enjoying trivia. Use this opportunity to impart wisdom,
share love, and create lasting memories.

● Wednesday, July 3, 2024: National Wellness Day Focus on the health and well-being
of our citizens with activities and initiatives promoting physical, mental, and emotional
wellness across the country.

● Thursday, July 4, 2024: National Day of Learning Immerse yourself in a day
dedicated to expanding your knowledge and understanding of the Bahamas. Whether
exploring a book at a public library, visiting a museum, participating in a workshop,
conversing with a community elder, or navigating the World Wide Web, seize this
opportunity to learn more about the country you love. Let this day inspire and enrich your
appreciation for the Bahamas and its vibrant culture.

● Friday, July 5, 2024: National Culture Day Celebrate Bahamian culture by immersing
yourself in the sounds of Bahamian music, savouring favourite Bahamian dishes, and
embracing the rich cultural heritage of the Bahamas. From the vibrant beats of Junkanoo
to the rhythmic melodies of Rake and Scrape, and from the captivating expressions of
Bahamian art to dynamic performances in film, music, and dance, this day is dedicated
to appreciating and celebrating all facets of Bahamian culture.

● Saturday, July 6, 2024: National Day of Service Dedicate the day to giving back to the
community. Participate in community service, lend a hand to a neighbour, and support
local initiatives, fostering a spirit of service and unity.

● Sunday, July 7, 2024: Independence Church Services Attend special services held
across the nation, bringing communities together in worship and thanksgiving, reflecting
on the journey and blessings of independence.

● Monday, July 8, 2024: National Day of Unity Promote kindness, respect, and peace.
Engage in activities and events that foster conflict resolution and unity, reinforcing the
bonds that hold the nation together.

● Tuesday, July 9, 2024: Ecumenical Service and Cultural Show Held at Clifford Park,
commencing at 8:00 PM, this event features a blend of spiritual reflection and cultural
performances, celebrating the diverse heritage and unity of the Bahamian people.

● Wednesday, July 10, 2024: Annual Independence State Reception An exclusive
event by invitation only at Government House, where distinguished guests gather to
celebrate the nation’s independence.

● Wednesday, July 10, 2024: Family Fun Day A lively event at Clifford Park with gates
opening at 4:00 PM. Families and friends come together for a day filled with fun
activities, entertainment, and the joy of community, closing the independence
celebrations on a high note.

Join us in celebrating our rich history and promising future. Together, we will continue to build a nation we can all be proud of.

Happy 51st Independence, Bahamas! Let us move forward, upward, and onward as one people,
united in love and service.