Embassy of The Bahamas, Brussels
Brussels, Belgium
December 2023
Press Release
Ambassador H.E. Cheryl Bazard participated in the annual Boxing Day Junkanoo Parade, rushing alongside the Saxon Superstars, in a vibrant celebration of Bahamian culture and community engagement.
The vibrant culture and rich heritage of The Bahamas took center stage during the much-anticipated Boxing Day Junkanoo parade. It was an exceptional display of Bahamian artistry and rhythmic celebration that captivated attendees and participants alike.
The Saxons Superstars, an esteemed Junkanoo group renowned for their talent and creativity, delivered an electrifying performance that added to the event’s splendor. As an esteemed participant, my husband and I had the honor, privilege, and pleasure to rush alongside them.
The Boxing Day Junkanoo parade is a revered tradition in The Bahamas, known for its spirited music, colourful costumes, and lively dance routines, encapsulating the essence of Bahamian culture and heritage. This grand event not only showcases the country’s artistic finesse but also fosters unity and community engagement.
The roots of Junkanoo can be traced back to the West African John Canoe Festival. Originating in the Bahamas around the 17th century, it began as a masquerade, with enslaved individuals donning flour paste-covered faces to celebrate on Boxing Day and the day after Christmas.
The basic instruments used in the celebration have remained the same, while some homemade instruments like conch shells, horns, and poinciana pods have been replaced by modern counterparts. Today, the melodies of the music are enhanced by the addition of brass instruments.
The Saxons Superstars’ performance was a testament to the dedication and passion deeply ingrained in the Bahamian Junkanoo tradition. Their dedication to preserving and promoting this cultural spectacle is commendable, contributing significantly to the country’s cultural legacy.
About The Embassy, Belgium: The Embassy of The Commonwealth of The Bahamas to the Kingdom of Belgium liaises with the Bahamas High Commission in London to perform a number of consular functions, including the processing and issuance of visas, the issuance of passports, the legalisation of documents, and assistance to Bahamian nationals in distress.
For more info: https://bahamasembassybe.com