Mr. Speaker, today I am pleased to announce the theme for Bermuda’s Heritage Month and the Bermuda Day Parade in 2026: “For the Culture.” Heritage Month has always been a moment for us to honour what makes Bermuda unique, and this year’s theme celebrates the spirit that brings us together as a people.
Mr. Speaker, our culture is bold, creative, and grounded in community. It lives in the rhythm of the drums, the stories carried through our art, the parades that fill our streets, and the people whose passion keeps our traditions alive. “For the Culture” recognises that these expressions are not simply performances or events. They reflect who we are, where we come from, and what we stand for.
Mr. Speaker, this theme reminds us that every contribution, whether large or small, strengthens the cultural fabric of our island. It is a salute to our traditions and to the generations who shaped them. It is a celebration of the talent found in every corner of Bermuda. And it is a call for all of us to continue creating, performing, and representing our island with pride.
Mr. Speaker, at the heart of our culture is both vibrancy and quiet strength. As much as our celebrations are full of colour, sound, and movement, our heritage also carries a commitment to unity, understanding, and peace. These values have guided our people through time, and they continue to ground us today. This Heritage Month we honour our ancestors, uplift our people, and recognise the future that our culture helps to shape.
Mr. Speaker, so many of our tradition bearers give of themselves not for money, fame, or accolades, but from a deep love for Bermuda. They keep our rhythms alive, pass our stories forward, and show up year after year because our heritage matters to them. Their devotion reminds us that culture is carried through care, commitment, and community. They do it for the culture.
Mr. Speaker, The Bermuda Day Fund remains a vital part of these celebrations, enabling groups and individuals to turn their visions into reality. I encourage everyone to contribute, helping to ensure that this year’s parade is as inclusive and inspiring as possible. Donations can be made through the Bermuda Community Foundation at www.givebermuda.org/BermudaDayFund.
Mr. Speaker, as we prepare for the Bermuda Day Parade, I urge our community to embrace this theme with the same passion and energy we see year after year. I encourage participants to let their creativity shine, drawing on the traditions, stories, and community spirit that define who we are. Let us see floats that honour our heritage, costumes that reflect the colours and rhythms of our island, and performances that celebrate the people and practices that make Bermuda unique. Of course, Bermuda Day cannot succeed without our participants, and I strongly encourage anyone interested in joining us to visit www.culture.bm for entry details.
Mr. Speaker, although it is only December, many of our parade groups and performers have already begun planning and rehearsing for May 2026. Some began as early as September, demonstrating their dedication to Bermuda Day and the pride they carry for their craft. This early announcement of the theme supports that work, giving groups the time they need to design, build, rehearse, and prepare their presentations with intention. Their commitment is the heartbeat of our celebration, and I thank them for the energy they pour into making Bermuda Day unforgettable each year.
Mr. Speaker, this year’s celebrations call us to pour our pride, talent, and creativity into everything we do. “For the Culture” speaks to the heart of who we are as Bermudians: connected, expressive, and rooted in community. As we honour those who paved the way and celebrate those shaping our present, we also look to the generations rising behind us. We celebrate together, with gratitude and joy. This one is for the culture.
Thank you, Mr. Speaker.