Bermuda Day Parade – Frequently Asked Questions Post-Event

Performance stops are limited to 2 minutes per group. In 2025, timer clocks were placed at key points along the route so participants could track their time, and parade marshals and MCs actively encouraged groups to keep moving. Groups that significantly exceeded the time limit will be contacted directly.

We aim to maintain a steady pace throughout the route. Each group is given a maximum 2-minute performance window, and timing clocks were in place to help manage this. However, some groups did not follow the timing rules, which caused delays. We are reviewing this and will be making improvements to enforcement and spacing for future parades.

There are. In 2025, the Royal Bermuda Regiment served as parade marshals, stationed at known congestion points, walking alongside groups, and using bikes to move quickly along the route.

All schools are invited through direct emails and through the Arts and Social Studies Coordinators. Unfortunately, May is a busy time for exams, and many schools report they are unable to take part. We continue to explore ways to increase participation, including building box carts for each Government primary school.

Yes. The Bermuda Day Fund exists to help participants with the costs associated with parade involvement. Interested groups are encouraged to apply through our grant process.

The Bermuda Half Marathon Derby typically ends around 12:30 PM. The 1:30 PM parade start allows the City of Hamilton time to clear the route and ensure it’s safe and clean for participants and spectators.

They are. All groups were timed at designated points along the route, and digital clocks were visible to participants to help them stay on track. Despite these efforts, many exceeded the 2-minute stop limit this year. We are following up with those groups directly to ensure better adherence in future.

The booklet lists all registered participants in alphabetical order due to printing timelines, which often fall before the final parade order is confirmed. It’s common for 3 to 5 groups to withdraw in the final week, which requires reordering the line-up. The official running order is finalised shortly before the event and is shared through other channels.

The parade order is determined based on several factors. Vehicles that cannot stop safely are typically placed earlier. Seniors are prioritised to reduce their time in the sun. We also stagger groups with and without music to prevent sound clashes, which can impact performances. The goal is to create the best flow for participants and spectators alike.

Applications closed on Wednesday, April 23. We experienced a surge of interest this year and are grateful to everyone who helped bring the parade to life. All entries are reviewed, and any groups not aligned with parade guidelines are contacted and asked to adjust or reconsider their participation.

The Department of Culture does not own or manage the City of Hamilton’s public streets and therefore is not involved in the administration or sale of viewing spots.

Horses are not permitted in the Bermuda Day Parade due to safety concerns. The horse seen this year was not authorised and entered the street without permission. It was quickly removed from the route by marshals.

Full barricading isn’t feasible due to the width of the road. Many spectators set up camps on the sidewalks, causing others to step into the road to get by. Adding barricades for walking lanes would make it difficult for large trucks to safely navigate the route. That said, we acknowledge the concern and will be launching a public awareness campaign on respectful spectator behaviour for 2026.

A few food vendors had to cancel at the last minute due to emergencies. We are grateful to those who were still able to participate and hope to return to full capacity in 2026.

Shortening the parade would mean limiting the number of entries, which we try to avoid as we want to encourage wide community participation. We’re exploring ways to keep the parade efficient without reducing involvement.

All applicants are reviewed against the Bermuda Day Parade rules and guidelines. If a group’s concept doesn’t align, they’re contacted and given an opportunity to revise or clarify. Groups who do participate have met the basic requirements and were approved in line with the parade’s inclusive spirit.

Gaps can be caused by delays in performance stops, breakdowns, or participants needing water or rest. While marshals and timekeepers are in place to manage this, it requires cooperation from participants. We’ll continue refining spacing and enforcement to maintain consistent flow.

Many dance groups have helpers on hand to provide water and support to performers, especially younger participants. While their role is important, we understand that visibility matters for spectators. We plan to meet with groups to discuss ways this support can be offered more effectively without obstructing the view.

All costumes are reviewed by the Department of Culture in advance to ensure they are appropriate for a public, family-friendly setting. Groups are required to use radio-edited music, and dance routines are submitted ahead of time. We work closely with groups to ensure all youth performances remain age-appropriate and respectful.

Some groups choose not to participate each year due to scheduling conflicts, funding constraints, or internal decisions. We welcome all eligible groups and encourage them to register during the application window.

Bermuda Day Parade entries are not judged competitively, except the floats. The focus is on celebration, creativity, and community pride. Groups are encouraged to bring their best to the road in the spirit of national unity and cultural expression. You can view the float judging criteria here

Yes. The parade was designed to bring all of Bermuda together, which includes our migrant communities. While the parade focuses primarily on Bermudian culture, we welcome participation from guest groups who are invited or approved through the application process, provided they align with the overall theme and parade guidelines.  

Participant applications typically open later in the calendar year and are announced through the Department of Culture’s channels. The form is available on culture.bm and includes information on eligibility, requirements, and support options like the Bermuda Day Fund.

Many groups return annually because they are longstanding participants who contribute significantly to the Bermuda Day tradition. We value both returning and new entries and aim to strike a balance between consistency and fresh contributions each year.

All groups are encouraged to interpret the theme creatively and in a way that reflects their identity. While some interpretations are more literal than others, we support a range of cultural expressions as long as they meet the basic parade criteria.

Waste and sanitation are managed in partnership with the Corporation of Hamilton and other service providers. We continue to assess needs each year and make adjustments to ensure adequate coverage. We encourage spectators to plan ahead and dispose of trash responsibly. A map with locations of bathrooms is circulated in advance of the parade.

We’re always open to revisiting beloved traditions. However, many entries are independently organised, and whether they return depends on the interest and availability of those groups. We invite new ideas and are happy to support individuals or communities who want to revive elements of the past.