A leading travel, history and culture publication has highlighted Bermuda’s unofficial first day of summer.

National Geographicran a feature about the month-long recognition of the island’s heritage.

Jamari Douglas, the Bermuda Tourism Authority’s vice-president of marketing, public relations and communications, told the publication how May 24 transformed from a day that honoured Queen Victoria’s birthday into a “quintessentially Bermudian celebration of our heritage, resilience, unity and culture”.

May 24 was first known as Empire Day and renamed Bermuda Day in 1979, when the first parade took place. It is now observed on the Friday before the last Monday in May.

Mr Douglas added: “Bermuda Day is embraced island-wide as a celebration of Bermuda’s community of diverse people and cultures that have blended together over centuries to create the island we call home.”

The article by Jacklyn Greenberg referenced Bermuda Day traditions such as the half-marathon derby, the parade through Hamilton and fitted dinghy racing.

It added: “Over time, residents realised that one day was not enough time to celebrate the culture of Bermuda’s people, so the entire month of May became Heritage Month.

“Almost every day in May, visitors can find events that celebrate Bermuda’s heritage, from jazz performances to art showcases to curated historical tours.”

The article also included information about dining and accommodation options.