Bermuda Day – May. 24, 2027

Bermuda Day
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Categories:
Tags:
CulturalHistorical
Where:
Bermuda
Date change rule:
Every May 24
Holiday emoji:
🇧🇲

Bermuda Day, observed every May 24, signals the official start of summer on the vibrant island. Locals embrace the warmer waters, don their iconic Bermuda shorts, and celebrate with parades and beach activities. Join the fun, relax by the ocean, and immerse yourself in island life.

Want to sponsor Bermuda Day? Learn how

Expected Bermuda Day Deals

As Bermuda Day approaches, anticipate travel deals from airlines like American Airlines and Delta Air Lines, offering flights to the island paradise. Cruise lines such as Norwegian Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean may feature special itineraries or onboard promotions. Local Bermudian businesses, including hotels like Hamilton Princess & Beach Club and boutiques, often roll out discounts on accommodations, tours, and summer apparel, especially Bermuda shorts. Swimwear brands like Speedo and Roxy might also see increased interest in their summer collections. We will update this page with confirmed live deals as May 24 approaches.

Platform Guide for Bermuda Day

Instagram

Tag @nationaltoday_ and use #BermudaDay. Share vibrant photos of Bermuda’s beaches, parades, and iconic Bermuda shorts.

TikTok

Tag @www.nationaltoday.com and use #BermudaDay. Film short videos showcasing Bermuda’s summer kickoff traditions, from swimming to street parties.

Facebook

Mention National Today (facebook.com/nationaltoday) and use #BermudaDay. Share community events, travel tips, and cultural insights about the island.

Social Media Tips for Bermuda Day

Individuals

Plan a trip to Bermuda to experience the festivities firsthand, or host a themed summer kickoff party at home with island-inspired food and music.

Creators

Create content showcasing Bermuda's unique traditions, such as the Bermuda Day Half Marathon Derby or the Gombeys dancers, highlighting the island's vibrant culture.

Brands

Travel agencies and airlines can run special Bermuda travel packages. Fashion brands can promote their summer collections, particularly stylish shorts, in honor of the holiday.

Top Brands for Bermuda Day

  1. Bermuda Tourism Authority

    The official marketing and promotional organization for Bermuda, responsible for attracting visitors and showcasing the island's unique culture and attractions. They play a key role in organizing and promoting Bermuda Day events.

  2. British Airways

    As Bermuda is a British Overseas Territory, British Airways provides direct flights connecting London to Bermuda, making it a popular choice for international travelers visiting the island. The airline has a long history of serving the route.

  3. Gosling's Rum

    A Bermudian family business founded in 1806, Gosling's is famous for its Black Seal rum, an essential ingredient in the island's signature Dark 'n' Stormy cocktail. It's a staple of Bermudian celebrations.

  4. Hamilton Princess & Beach Club

    An iconic luxury hotel in Hamilton, Bermuda, known as the 'Pink Palace.' It's a Fairmont-managed property that has hosted royalty and celebrities, offering a quintessential Bermudian resort experience.

  5. Lilly Pulitzer

    Known for its vibrant, preppy resort wear, Lilly Pulitzer embodies the colorful, relaxed aesthetic often associated with tropical destinations like Bermuda. Their collections frequently feature bright prints perfect for island life.

  6. Dockers

    A global brand specializing in khaki trousers and smart casual wear, Dockers' range often includes stylish shorts that align with the spirit of Bermuda shorts, making them relevant for summer fashion.

  7. Royal Caribbean

    One of the world's largest cruise lines, Royal Caribbean offers numerous itineraries that include Bermuda as a port of call, bringing thousands of visitors to the island to experience its culture and beauty.

Bermuda Day Hero

Sir George Somers

Sir George Somers was an English admiral whose flagship, the Sea Venture, was wrecked off the coast of Bermuda in 1609 while en route to Jamestown. His crew became the first permanent settlers of Bermuda, and he is considered one of the island's founders. His accidental discovery led to the establishment of the British colony.

History of Bermuda Day

Discovered in 1503, Bermuda is named after Spanish explorer Juan de Bermúdez, who came across the archipelago while sailing in the North Atlantic Ocean. Over a century passed before Bermuda was inhabited. In 1609, a British ship called the Sea Venture was caught in a hurricane. Rather than sink on the reefs off the coast of Bermuda, the crew decided to land their wrecked ship and officially settle the island. The crew of the Sea Venture was the first and only inhabitants of the island. In 1912, they established the island’s capital, St. Georges.

It wasn’t until the 1620’s that ancestors of Bermuda’s population today arrived on the island, as both slaves who were brought to Bermuda and also free Africans who chose to escape the expansion of British colonies.

When colonial powers officially took control of Bermuda, it marked a monumental change and growth in the island’s culture, fostering a unique brand of imperialism for the island dwellers, who were cut off from the rest of the world.

Bermuda Day was born in 1979. Previously known as Victoria Day and then Empire Day, Bermudians rebranded the holiday, preferring to lose the time-honored tradition of paying homage to the British Empire. They decided to honor their own independence and national pastimes instead.

Bermuda Day timeline

1503
Discovered

Wandering explorer and Spanish ship captain, Juan de Bermúdez, sees land on the horizon.

1609
Official Settlement

The Sea Venture crew outmaneuver a deadly hurricane and are forced to settle on the island.

1968
Self-governance

With a new constitution drafted, Bermuda is now capable of self-rule, with its own appointed governor who acts on behalf of the queen.

1979
Bermuda Day

Instead of commemorating the British Empire, Empire Day becomes Bermuda Day which celebrates the diversity of the island and what it means to be Bermudian.

How Businesses Can Celebrate Bermuda Day

Local Bermudian businesses can celebrate Bermuda Day by decorating their storefronts with festive colors and flags, offering special ‘Bermuda Day’ menus featuring local cuisine, and hosting live music or cultural performances. Retailers can promote summer fashion, particularly Bermuda shorts and swimwear, with themed displays. Tour operators can offer special excursions highlighting the island’s history and natural beauty, encouraging both locals and tourists to explore.

Bermuda Day FAQs

When is Bermuda Day?

In 2027, Bermuda Day is observed on Monday, May 24, offering a long weekend for islanders to enjoy the kickoff to summer. The holiday is a vibrant display of Bermudian pride and tradition.

What are Bermuda shorts?

Originating in Bermuda, these stylish shorts are a cultural icon, known for their tailored fit and slightly longer length compared to typical shorts. They are a symbol of island fashion and tradition, especially on Bermuda Day.

Is Bermuda Day a public holiday?

As a national holiday, Bermuda Day ensures that the entire island can partake in the annual summer kickoff. Banks, government offices, and many businesses close, fostering a widespread festive atmosphere.

What is the Bermuda Day Half Marathon Derby?

This iconic half marathon is a highlight of Bermuda Day, with participants running from St. George’s to Hamilton. The race is a significant part of the holiday’s celebrations, embodying the island’s active spirit.

How to Observe Bermuda Day

  1. Find the ocean

    Above all, Bermuda Day is a call to return to the ocean. Head to the beach. Or a pool, if there’s no beach nearby.

  2. Summer treat

    If you’re too busy to hit the beach or pool, have a summer treat. A big nice ice cream serving or fresh cold juice will just hit the spot.

  3. Indoors

    Naturally, the day wouldn’t coincide with summer everywhere. If it’s still raining or cold where you live, plan some fun indoor activities for the day.

5 Interesting Facts Aِbout Bermuda

  1. Oldest British Colony

    To this day, Bermuda is still considered a British Territory, and in 1995, the island held a referendum for independence, and, as a nation, they voted to remain in British Territory.

  2. Uninhabited

    Before the Sea Venture crew, it was uninhabited.

  3. The Bermuda Triangle

    The Bermuda Triangle is home to some of the craziest conspiracy theories out there and the bizarre disappearances and incidences within have made for some compelling stories.

  4. Pirates and privateers

    Throughout King George’s reign, Bermuda was a haven for pirates and privateers, which were pirates who had the blessing of the British King to do as they pleased.

  5. Tourist paradise

    With a population of around 63,000 people, Bermuda receives over ten times its own population in tourists annually.

Why Bermuda Day is Important

  1. It's fun

    Beach, pool, and summer treats. There are too many choices for one day, and they’re all fun.

  2. Start of summer vibes

    We all patiently wait for summer in the northern hemisphere. Here is a lateral call to get in on the summer fun.

  3. Blessed island

    We get to know about this paradise along with its history and people. Who knows, we may visit it soon.

Bermuda Day dates

Year Date Day
2027 May 24 Monday
2028 May 24 Wednesday
2029 May 24 Thursday
2030 May 24 Friday
2031 May 24 Saturday