I know the cancellation of Bermuda Day was inevitable & the right call, but I wanted to reflect on the incredible energy that goes into this beloved holiday. It’s not just a day off. It’s not just a half-marathon & parade.

It was created as a way to bring together a fragmented community after a period of civil unrest. Does it do what is was meant to do? Not really, in my opinion. We are still fragmented, perhaps in different ways.

People may think that cancelling on April 15 is plenty of notice. Dance groups begin practicing in late August/early September. Some groups already have their costumes, others are on the way. They understand, things can be reused at another time. Safety is priority.

Float concepts have been worked on for the last few months by builders and designers. Even during the last couple of weeks, I have had messages from keen gardeners and developers with ideas for creations for this year's parade. Bermudians are blessed with abundant creativity.

The parade is the result of many teams working together. Especially @citylifebda - who have such wonderful staff that love Bermuda Day so much (& those no longer with us that set the precedent- we miss you ) they have even worked outside of city limits to help (thank you!).

So many small businesses pull together to make it happen! Shout out to the vendors selling food! Security, sound, tents, DJs, and MCs! Each is an important element of the day. Each will lose an important contract this year.

Nowhere else in the world you will see people camp for a week to prepare for a parade. You would never see someone pipe and drape a sidewalk for an afternoon. I LOVE BERMUDIANS. Keep that energy for next time!

I can't understate how long a day it is for participants. Trucks get there at 7 AM, participants at 12. Parade doesn't start til 1:30. The last group finishes at about 7:30. It is HOT, there is lycra, and feathers, and velvet, and sequins. I will see you all in May 2021.

This year was going to be my 5th year in charge of the parade. I have been so proud of the work, the challenges, and the growth. I could tell some stories, buh! I'm disappointed you lot won't get a traditional Bermuda Day Parade.... but don't worry.... I have a few ideas .