Hundreds of Bermudians turned out over the weekend to celebrate the abolition of slavery with dancing, music, and an acknowledgement of how far the Island has come.

Saturday marked the 175th anniversary of the emancipation of slaves on the Island.

In honour of the milestone, a number of events were held throughout the Botanical Gardens. Celebrations began shortly after noon, with audiences treated to traditional music and dance, presentations, and demonstrations set throughout the park's grounds.

Governor Sir Richard Gozney officially opened the event, saying that the move to abolish slavery "broke the mould of 200 years".

"It was a huge step, and I don't think there could be a bigger step," he added.

Acting Premier Paula Cox urged those in attendance to remember the reason for the Cup Match holiday, which residents celebrated on Thursday and Friday.

"It's easy for us to see the two-day holiday and see it as a time to party. That's not what it's about.

"We have much to celebrate. However, in recognising the bitter past, let us recognise that like the phoenix, we have the power to forge a new way to benefit the whole of Bermuda."

Minister of Culture Neletha Butterfield insisted more needs to be done to eradicate racism in the community.

She said: "We must redouble our efforts to break down the subtle forms of racial discrimination that persist today, so that with each new generation, we move closer and closer to a society in which the natural order of things is to reject racial inequality and embrace social justice."

Opposition Leader Kim Swan Opposition leader Kim Swan told the audience that Bermuda needs to embrace its differences as a community.

"This Country could be a shining light for the whole world. We have it in our hands."

Throughout the day, various performances and demonstrations were held as a means of educating people about Bermuda's cultural heritage.

Event organiser Conchita Ming said: "We were trying to tell a story in a different way, through crafts and food and music. Our performances were very entertaining and very meaningful."

Festivities started slowly, with only a few dozen spectators present for the opening blessing however hundreds had gathered by the end.

"It would have been lovely to have more, but it was Cup Match and it was hot," said Mrs. Ming. "We were very impressed by the diversity of the crowd. It was amazing to have so many different community groups involved."

One of the highlights was the premiere of the play 'Emancipation: A Love Story'.

Written by Kim Dismont Robinson, it brought the audience to a standing ovation, before the events were concluded with a performance by Gombeys.

"There were many beautiful moments throughout the day," said Mrs. Ming. "We were very pleased."