Minister of Culture and Social Rehabilitation Dale Butler has announced this year's route for the Bermuda Day parade and promoted several Heritage Month events.

Wearing a brightly coloured Gombey-style sash, Mr. Butler yesterday discussed the route and addressed numerous concerns, stating that for the safety of the public, horses would not be included in this year's festivities.

Because May 24 falls on a Saturday, the holiday and parade will both be held on Monday, May 26.

This year's parade will begin at 1.30 p.m. with the participants marching down Front Street before turning onto Court Street. The parade will then travel left onto Victoria street, right onto Cedar Avenue, through the tennis stadium, before turning onto Dutton Avenue.

The parade will then continue to Bernard Park for the closing celebrations.

Mr. Butler advised that parade-goers remain behind the barriers and be as welcoming to tourists as possible.

"Try to accommodate them as if they were a member of your family," Mr. Butler said. "Offer them a seat if you can."

Mr. Butler also suggested that younger people in the parade should be transported by car or van between areas in the parade route out of fear of heat stroke.

"We view with grave concern young Gombeys and majorettes out in the sun," said Mr. Butler. "Some people felt it was child abuse."

In addition, Mr. Butler asked that parade-goers avoid bringing alcoholic drinks to the event.

"We would love to have an alcohol free parade. I would encourage the participants to make it an alcohol free day."

Mr. Butler also warned that parade participants who do not obey the directions of the Parade Marshal may be denied permission to be involved in next year's parade.

"The Department of Community and Cultural Affairs is working with all participants in co-operation with the parade marshals to improve the flow of the parade. We would like to see the parade flow nicely. Everyone will benefit," he said.

During the press conference, Mr. Butler also promoted several upcoming Heritage Month events, which share this year's "Life in Old Bermuda" theme, including a bazaar at the BIU car park on Saturday, May 10.

On Sunday, May 11, historical re-enactments will be performed at Carter House in St. David's, while food will be provided by Dolly Pitcher.

Mr. Butler also promoted a talk by Mr. Morton Williams entitled "Telling Tales Only Seniors Know" which takes place on the Sun Deck Two on Tuesday, and musicians performing daily at the Number 6 shed for the month of May.

"We hope this month of celebration will serve to educate and build appreciation for the values, traditions, and discipline that kept our forefathers strong and focused," he said.