Bermuda Calendar Of Events For 2004

2004 will see Bermuda present a wealth of events to visitors, certain to attract visitors from all over the globe.

JANUARY

· Bermuda Festival January 8th – February 28th

The festival features theatrical performances, art and dance and includes performances from the London based Aquila theatre company, the Dance theatre of Harlem and Ian Tracey, the Organist and Master of the Choristers of Liverpool cathedral UK.

· Bermuda National Gallery Art & Architecture Tour January 6th – March 30th

This tour starts at the City Hall and Arts centre, winding through the historic streets of Hamilton before finishing with lunch at the award-winning Waterloo House restaurant.

· Bermuda International Race weekend January 16th – 18th

Bermuda plays host to international athletes and elite runners this month. With four different races, the invitational mile, International 10K, International Marathon and International half marathon, there are prizes to be won for each event plus bonuses totalling £16,000 for record breaking performances in the Mile and International Marathon categories.

FEBRUARY

· The Bermuda Horse and Pony Association February, March, May & October

This event will be running throughout February, March, May and October at the National Equestrian centre.

MARCH

· The 75th Men’s Amateur Match Play Championship March 8th – 13th

A single golf match play event which is being held at the Mid Ocean Golf club. Ranked among the world’s top courses, this 18-hole championship course is typically Bermudian. The course offers cliff side tees, palm-tree lined fairways and dramatic ocean vistas.

· Bermuda Philharmonic Society Spring Concert March 20th

Taking place at the Ruth Seaton James Auditorium of the performing arts, this choral society and orchestra performs at least four shows a year, two of which are open-air.

· Bermuda Film Festival March 19th – 25th

Liberty Theatre and Little Theatre in Hamilton play host to this film festival whose aim is to advance the love of independent film from around the world and create a community welcoming to filmmakers and filmgoers. An international jury will give out awards for best narrative film, best documentary and best short film in competition while filmgoers also have the opportunity to vote for the audience choice award.

APRIL

· 2004 XL Capital Bermuda Open April 19th – 25th

This annual tournament will mark the 11th anniversary when local and international tennis players gather at the Coral Beach & Tennis Club to compete. In the past, tennis champions such as Pat Rafter, have attended this event.

MAY

· Don’t Stop the Carnival May 1st – 31st

Experience a party you will never forget! The party begins with a scenic cruise and continues on to Hawkins Island where you can enjoy the live Reggae experience. The carnival is held every week through May on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays.

· Bermuda Senior Amateur Championship for ladies May 19th & 20th

Held at Riddell’s Bay Golf Club, ladies of all standards can enter providing they meet the handicap limit of 18 and have managed to get through the 18 hole qualifying round on March 9th.

· Bermuda Day Parade May 24th

This is a public holiday and features a colourful parade that winds through the streets of Hamilton. The parade finishes at Pembroke with entertainment and food stalls from 6-10pm.

JUNE

· The Queen’s Birthday Parade June 14th

The UK’s oldest overseas territory, Bermuda marks the official birthday of Queen Elizabeth II every June. To celebrate, the Bermuda Regiment - in full regalia - conducts a parade led by His Excellency the Governor and Bermuda’s Premier, Alex Scott. Visitors flock to see the Regimental Band’s performance and the colourful Gombey dancers in full flow, while cannon blasts add to the pomp and circumstance.

NOVEMBER

· World Rugby Classic November 6th – 14th

Widely recognised as the senior’s World Cup, this annual event is held at the Bermuda National Centre. The tournament welcomes some of the world’s top former international players, such as legendary All Black captain Wayne ‘Buck’ Shelford, ex-England wingers Mike Harrison and Nigel Heslop and ex Springbok’s Brendan Venter and Theo Van Rensberg. Similar ex-international stars are expected in 2004.

· Bermuda Culinary Arts Festival November 11th – 16th

This is being held at hotels across the island and traditionally hosts a star–studded selection of world renowned gourmet guests. Visitors have the opportunity to sample both international culinary masterpieces and authentic Bermudian delicacies prepared by local chefs. Attendees are also invited to dine in the homes of local families for a unique dining experience, giving them the opportunity to taste both the local hospitality and the tantalizing cuisine.

For further information on Bermuda, visit www.bermudatourism.com

or call call 020 8410 8188 for a free information pack.

.