Heritage Month is set to run through May 31 as a celebration of Bermuda’s historical treasures. The month was launched with a reception at City Hall.

“All events planned this year are uniquely based on the theme and to promote our many heritage sites,” a Community and Cultural Affairs spokesperson said.

“The Department has organised a new event this year: a Taste of Bermuda Culinary Festival at the World Heritage Centre in St George’s on May 9. Other featured events include an evening of music and entertainment by local artist at Bermuda Society of Arts Gallery on May 2. The Bermuda Arts Centre will be the location for a Folk Festival on May 18.

“The Department is busy making final plans for the annual Bermuda Day Parade, and look forward to the creative ways the float-makers will use the theme of Bermuda Historical Treasures.”

The Bermuda Day Parade, which will be held on May 26, traditionally marks the high point of the annual commemoration.

The roster of events opened with remarks from Alexis Swan, Junior Minister for Community and Cultural Affairs, who called it “a month-long pride fest” in which all could take part.

“I hope that all residents will take time this month to enjoy some of our historical treasures that can be seen in the beautiful architecture of our buildings, our treasured beaches and parks, our Bermudian restaurants, our musicians and entertainers including the Gombeys, our forts, wrecks, reefs and, of course, ocean surrounding our Island.

“Since the theme is historical treasures, this month would be a good time to brush up on our history by visiting the National Museum of Bermuda, The Bermuda Underwater Exploration Institute, Bermuda National Library, Historical Society Museum, Verdmont Museum, Bermuda Aquarium Museum and Zoo, Fort St Catherine Museum, Globe Hotel and Carter House. Just visiting all of these museums should keep us busy for the entire month.”

Sen Swan called on residents to “focus on the things that matter — the traditions and cultural attributes that we value”.

“This is our Heritage Month, and our time to shine and celebrate our heritage and traditions.”

The next event on the heritage calendar is a Heritage Entertainment Social at the Bermuda Society of Arts Gallery in City Hall next Friday night.

The night of music, celebrating the Island’s entertainment treasures, kicks off at 5.30pm and runs until 8pm.