Grand Bahama celebrates the nation’s 52nd Anniversary

By Shakara Trott
Bahamas Information Services

GRAND BAHAMA, The Bahamas –  From Tin Tubs to Jacuzzis.  From Kerosene Lamps to Chandeliers.  From Hand Pumps to Running Water.

As the nation reflects on its journey, these nostalgic comparisons remind Bahamians of just how far we’ve come.  On the eve of July 10th, the Grand Independence Central Lawn was transformed into a vibrant hub of celebration as scores of Bahamians, families, dignitaries, and special guests gathered to commemorate the country’s 52nd Anniversary of Independence.

The evening featured a cultural showcase brimming with national pride—from lively food trucks to breathtaking fireworks—bringing the community together in a unified celebration of heritage, resilience, and hope for the future.

Dignitaries made a grand entrance, chauffeured onto the grounds in red-carpet, Vogue-style fashion, and introduced by the evening’s Master of Ceremonies, Wilbert Stubbs.

The festivities began with an ecumenical service led by the Grand Bahama Christian Council.  Bishop Barry Morris and Bishop John C. Wallace opened with a call to worship and invocation, followed by an uplifting session of praise led by Calvary Temple’s worship team.

In a stirring keynote address, Archdeacon Earl Hepburn reflected on the spiritual foundation of the Bahamian journey. “No matter how much effort is put in, if God is not at the center, the foundation will falter,” he said, reminding attendees that the nation’s progress must always be rooted in faith.

As the evening progressed, the atmosphere shifted to high-energy entertainment with performances by DECISION, Top Tier Band, RYCON, Sharade, The Bmes, Bahamas Dance Theatre Troupe, Wilfred Solomon, Nishie L.S., DMAC, and KB—offering a rich tapestry of Bahamian culture in music and dance.

Minister for Grand Bahama, the Hon. Ginger Moxey, carried out the traditional Inspection of the Guard, setting the stage for the ceremonial highlight of the evening.

Finally, just prior to midnight, and as Independence Day, July 10, rolled in, the Royal Bahamas Defence Force and Royal Bahamas Police Force raised the National Flag, and sounds of the National Anthem filled the air.

With fireworks lighting up the sky, The Bahamas proudly turned 52—marking more than half a century of independence, growth, and national pride.

PHOTO CAPTION: Independence Park was abuzz with excitement as the nation celebrated its 52nd anniversary.  The event drew hundreds of attendees who came to mark this significant milestone in the country’s history.  Minister for Grand Bahama, the Hon. Ginger Moxey is pictured as she greeted uniformed branch officers, dignitaries, and members of the community at the celebration.

(BIS Photos/Andrew Miller)