How Independence Day is Celebrated in Trinidad
Trinidad is part of a twin island republic located in the southern part of the West Indies. Its sister isle Tobago lies to the north-east of Trinidad. Having gained independence from the United Kingdom on August 31 1962, Trinidad and Tobago have been displaying their national pride since then by commemorating this day each year with three majorevents.
Independence Day in Trinidad and Tobago starts with an early morning military-style parade in the capital cities of each island - at the Queens Park Savannah in Port of Spain, Trinidad and at Scarborough in Tobago. Various protective and service oriented forces take part with each contingent marching onto the parade ground. The Regiment, Fire Service and Police force usually have their vehicles on parade as well. Some other participants include the Red Cross, Cadet Force and Scouts. There is no doubt though that year after year the K9 and mounted branches of the Police Force are always the crowd pleasers but the biggest thrill comes from the fly-by of military planes and helicopters.
Theparadeis inspected by the President of the Republic who is also Chief in Command of the Armed Forces. In Tobago, the Chief Secretary of the Tobago House of Assembly oversees the event. The Independence Day parade ends with a march through the streets of Port of Spain and St James accompanied by live music from the Police, Fire and Regiment bands. The choice of music is lively calypso and soca rhythms that are synonymous with Trinidad and Tobago carnivals. The atmosphere is one of jubilation as spectators now dance and sing in the streets following the parade back to the Barracks.
Later in the day, National Awards are presented to citizens for outstanding achievement in their various fields or invaluable contribution to the service of Trinidad and Tobago. The highest of these awards being the Order of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago which was formerly called the Trinity Cross. The ceremony was held at the President’s House in previous years but due to disrepair, it is now facilitated at the Queen’s Hall.
Trinidad and Tobago’s Independence Day celebrations end with firework displays. Crowds gather to watch the larger displays at Port of Spain, Arima and Scarborough. However, firework displays are not limited to these areas as some large businesses or community organisations may put on their own show.
In 2012, Trinidad and Tobago celebrates its 50th anniversary of Independence. So far, in addition to the usual celebrations, a National calypso competition is planned where the best nation-building or motivational song wins.
Coming out of Trinidad’s success at the Olympics, where one athlete,Keshorn Walcottbrought home Trinidad and Tobago’s second Olympic gold medal, there is no doubt that this new national hero will be receiving one of the National Awards on Independence Day.
