Thousands of Bermudians crowded Front Street to ring in the 400th Anniversary launch celebrations of the Island.

Complete with acrobatics, Japanese drumming, fire-eating, food and of course fireworks, the launch party got Bermudians in the spirit of celebrating 400 years of history.

Steering Committee Chair Conchita Ming said: "We are very excited about the response from the Bermuda public. It was beyond our wildest dreams that so many people would come."

The night began with Hamilton town crier Ed Christopher ringing the bell followed by the Regiment Band performing from the porch of the Bank of Butterfield.

The Ties that Bind, a musical and dance group comprised of the Band & Corps of Drums of the Bermuda Regiment, the Bermuda Islands Pipe Band, Grupo Folclorico Vasco da Gama & H&H Gombeys performed with much applause from the crowd.

Comedian Nadanja Bailey provided much needed comic relief in the intervals followed by a performance by Prestige who sang Bermuda is Another World along with many more crowd favourites.

Animate Objects performed 'Riccochet', suspended on a 40ft wall accompanied by Fushu Daiko, Japanese Taiko Drummers.

The aerialists, including Bermudian Tyler Barker, hung from the ropes as they swung, did flips and many other stunts in the air. Their second performance was fire stunts including fire-eating, tossing and doing acrobatics with the fire.

Another musical performance, The Unit took place with saxophones and guitars.

Although a lot of effort and planning was put into the festivities, people on the street didn't seem too impressed.

An educator, who asked to remain anonymous, said: "I would have thought they would have done more to feature Bermudians as it is our celebrations.

Henry Thomas said: "I haven't been here long, I've only seen the sky dancing. It's less than what I expected, the actual acrobatics."

Trae Cannonier, a 17-year old student said: "I think it lacked Bermudian culture. I expected to see more of our culture."

The night ended with a fireworks display with one event down and many more to come over the year.