Independence Day in The Bahamas

Independence Day in the Bahamas is an event that attracts people from all over the world. Although the holiday officially falls on the 10th of July every year, the actual celebrations last the entire week.

If the 10th just so happens to fall on a Sunday, then the week-long festivities will begin on the following Monday. Because this is a public holiday, it’s a day off for the general population, and schools, businesses, and government offices are closed for the day. Which is a good thing since there is so much to do on the islands during this event.

The History Of Independence Day In The Bahamas

In 1492, Christopher Columbus landed in the Bahamas becoming the first European to do so. By the beginning of the 18th century, the Bahamas would become a British Crown Colony and Great Britain used the islands as a point for their anti-pirate suppression tactics.

When the United States won the American War of Independence, some British loyalists would relocate to the Bahamas and live there instead. In 1967, the Bahamas achieved majority rule and the British would grant the country independence on June 22, 1973. On July 10th of that year, the Bahamas would officially be declared an independent nation.

Observing Independence Day In The Bahamas

There are a ton of activities that happen in the Bahamas on Independence Day. It’s a day filled with parades and music, dancing, and bands. It’s also a holiday where street vendors serve some of the best food on the island, and government officials and civic leaders make speeches.

As we stated earlier, this holiday not only takes place on one day but is enjoyed for an entire week. And when night comes, people can expect some pretty impressive firework displays. It’s a day of patriotism for people native to the Bahamas, and for visitors, it’s an impressive holiday to enjoy. On social media, the hashtag #IndependenceDayBahamas can be used to spread the word about this wonderful independence day celebration.

Where is it celebrated?
The Bahamas (Public holiday)
When is it?
This year (2024)
July 10 Wednesday
Next year (2025)
July 10 Thursday
Last year (2023)
July 10 Monday