Video: Press Conference On Bermuda Day
[Updated] Minister of Tourism & Transport, Culture & Sport Owen Darrell and Minister of National Security Michael Weeks is holding a press conference this morning [May 19] to discuss Bermuda Day 2026. We will have additional coverage later on and in the meantime the live video is below.
Update 5.50pm: Minister Of National Security Michael Weeks said, “Good morning everyone. It is proper for me to start by thanking my colleague, the Minister for Tourism and Transport and Culture and Sport, and all of the organisers, agencies, departments, volunteers and community partners who have worked so hard in preparing for Bermuda Day.
“I know this day does not come together overnight. The events during this beloved holiday take many months of planning to ensure that the parade, the races and the wider holiday activities can be enjoyed safely by residents and visitors.
“Bermuda Day is one of the most important days on our calendar. It is a day when we celebrate who we are as Bermudians. This year’s theme, “For the Culture”, as the Minister has stated, speaks to our pride, traditions, families, music, people and the and the very fabric of our community that binds us together.
“That is why my message to all of Bermuda today is simple: Please celebrate safely.
“I would expect everyone to enjoy the festivities of the day and the entire weekend but, do so with the utmost care, respect and good judgement.
“Many people will be on the roads this weekend. I ask motorists, riders and pedestrians to drive and ride responsibly and in a respectful manner towards other road users. Please slow down, pay attention, wear your seatbelt, wear your helmet where required, and above all else, do not drink and drive.
“A few careless seconds on the road can change a family’s life forever. None of us wants to see a holiday weekend remembered for a serious collision or a phone call with bad news.
“Many residents will also be heading to the beaches and out on the water. The Royal Bermuda Regiment Coastguard will be on patrol during the holiday period, helping to ensure safety on our waters. But safety cannot rest with patrols alone.
“If you are operating a boat or jet ski, please be responsible. Know your limits. Look out for swimmers, other vessels and changing weather conditions. Make sure your safety equipment is in order. I If alcohol is part of your day, please make sensible decisions before you get behind the wheel of a vehicle or take control of a vessel.
“I also want to speak directly to anyone who may be thinking about using this holiday weekend to cause trouble, settle a score, or take part in violence or anti-social behaviour.
“Stop and think.
“Think about the families who would be left to carry the pain. Think about the young people watching. Think about what Bermuda Day is meant to represent. Think about how your future and that of your entire family will be forever changed for the worse.
“This holiday should leave us with good memories, not grief. It should bring people together, not tear families apart.
“I also ask the public to play their part. If you see something that does not look right, say something. Do not stay silent because you think it is not your business. Community safety is everybody’s business.
“The Police, the Coastguard and other agencies have their roles to play, and I thank them for their service over this busy period. But they cannot do it alone. The cooperation of the public is a very important component for the overall safety of Bermuda.
“Let us make this Bermuda Day one that reflects the best of us. Let us celebrate our culture, people and island in a way that is safe, respectful and peaceful. Thank you.”
Minister of Tourism & Transport, Culture & Sport Owen Darrell said, “Good morning everyone, and happy Heritage Month.
“Thank you for joining us as we look ahead to the 2026 Bermuda Day Parade.
“This year’s theme, “For The Culture”, reflects the energy, creativity, and community spirit that make Bermuda Day one of the most special days on our calendar. From majorettes to floats, Gombeys to dance groups, schools and community organisations, people across Bermuda have been working hard for months preparing to put on a great show for the island.
“Bermuda Day has always been one of my favourite holidays because nowhere else do you see Bermuda celebrate “de culture” quite like this. So, for me personally, it is really special to serve as the Minister responsible for Culture and to be part of helping bring this day to life every year.
“We are looking forward to another exciting celebration of Bermudian culture and heritage, and I encourage the public to come out early, support the participants, pack a picnic, wave your flags, and enjoy the day responsibly.
“At the same time, Bermuda Day is a very large operational event, and public safety remains a major priority for all agencies involved. We are asking everyone to work with us to help make the day safe and enjoyable for all.
“Please remain off the parade route unless crossing safely when directed, avoid blocking intersections, and try not to step into moving sections of the parade for photos and videos. We know the content is important, but we promise the parade will still look good from the side of the road.
“Parents and guardians are also encouraged to keep a close eye on children, particularly near moving vehicles and active parade groups.
“We are also asking the public to pack a little patience along with the picnic baskets this year. Bermuda Day is a long route, a long day, and a moving event with hundreds of participants. There may be pauses from time to time, but participants are being actively worked with in advance around spacing and parade flow to help minimise unnecessary delays and keep things moving as smoothly as possible.
“I also want to make a special appeal to the public around our Gombey troupes, which are always among the most anticipated parts of the parade. We understand people are excited to interact with and support their favourite troupes, but when spectators stand in front of or around the troupes as they are moving, it can create significant gaps and delays in the parade flow.
“We therefore ask the public to remain behind the Gombey troupes while they are performing and moving through the route, and to allow marshals, police, and parade officials clear access when needed.
“After the success of last year, following the final Gombey troupe, which traditionally concludes the parade, there will be an approximate 30- minute break before the after-party soca truck proceeds along the route without stopping.
“I want to acknowledge the various Bermuda Day race organisers and participants who continue to contribute to the excitement and tradition of the holiday each year, and we wish everyone taking part a safe and successful day.
“Finally, I want to thank the Department of Culture team, all participating groups, City of Hamilton staff, emergency services, and the public for helping to make Bermuda Day a success year after year.
“We look forward to seeing everyone out on Friday for another outstanding Bermuda Day celebration. Thank you, and happy Bermuda Day.”
Acting Superintendent Alex Rollin – “Good day. I am Acting Superintendent Alex Rollin and I am the Bermuda Police Service [BPS] Gold Commander for the 2026 Bermuda Day events on Friday, 22nd May.
“For the Half Marathon Derby, Sinclair Packwood Memorial Race and Bermuda Heritage Day Parade, we have teams of officers working in support of race organizers and officials. You will see BPS officers static at key junctions, as well as patrolling the race and parade routes, working closely with marshals and security.
“It should be noted that the runners and pedal cyclists will be starting from Somerset this year.
“Roads along the race routes will close at 7:30 a.m. Friday morning and once road closures are in effect for the Bermuda Heritage Day Parade in the City of Hamilton, vehicle movement will be restricted, until the conclusion of the parade. Designated no parking areas will be clearly marked. So please, plan ahead – particularly if you live in the western parishes.
“It is not lost on me that people are busy on the holiday and want to get from point A to point B without hassle. This is one of the biggest events of the year for our island and safety must be paramount. When signalled to stop by a police officer or marshal please do so, for the wellbeing of those racing, officiating and of course spectating. Civility and understanding will go a long way to safeguard the holiday.
“Beyond the heightened levels of policing for the main events that day, you will also see and feel increased police presence from the afternoon on Friday until Saturday morning. Again, you may experience some disruptions with your journeys, but as always, we appreciate the levels of patience and cooperation that we continue to receive.
“I think it’s fitting to end with a thank you to our community for their support over the last few years, when it comes to being our extended eyes and ears. If you are out and about, be it watching the race, the parade or even in your travels for the holiday weekend – if something looks out of place and just doesn’t sit right with you – please call the police. We want to know these things.
“You can call 911 in an emergency, 211 for non-emergency matters and share anonymous tips through the independent and confidential Crime Stoppers hotline, 800-8477.
“Responsible behaviour throughout this holiday weekend – whether on land, or out on the water – can help avoid any incidents that may have life-long consequences.
“Let’s work together to ensure a safe and enjoyable holiday for our island.”
