Thousands turn out for Independence Day BBQ

More than 5,000 people turned out on Saturday evening to celebrate American Independence day – the largest July 4 barbecue held outside the US.

The celebrations, which took place at Moresby Plain, near Dockyard, were hosted by the American Society of Bermuda and the US Consulate.

The theme of the evening was Celebrating Freedom: Giving Back to Bermuda, with more than 40 charities set to benefit from donations by corporate sponsors.

Introducing the evening, US Consul General Gregory Slayton encouraged members of the audience to introduce themselves to one of the charities and offer help either by making a donation or by volunteering.

Congressman GK Butterfield, whose family is from Bermuda, read out an Independence Day proclamation from President Bush. He was joined by Congresswoman Diane Watson.

Both Premier Dr Ewart Brown, who told the audience about his recent trip to Washington DC, and Opposition Leader Michael Dunkley addressed the crowd.

The event, which took over six months to plan, included a huge barbecue and activities for children such as fun castles and face painting.

The glorious weather was a sharp contrast to last year’s rainy conditions.

Laura Callan, who is spending the week visiting her sister in Bermuda, said: “This is amazing. It’s the first time I’ve celebrated Independece Day any place other than home and it’s as good, if not better than anything I’ve ever seen.”

The MC for the evening was KJAZ’s Marshall Griffin and there were musical performances from a variety of local musicians including Hindsight, St Paul AME Inspirational Choir and The Bermuda National Youth Jazz Ensemble.

The evening ended with a spectacular fireworks display.

Courtesy of Bermuda Network News reporter Christen Pears