Contrary to what Prime News predicted Independence anniversary celebrations attracted massive turnout.

A section of the large crowd that attended the 44th Independence Celebrations at the National Park

Thousands of Guyanese of all ages filled the National Park beyond capacity. Throngs were forced to just listen to the sounds emanating from the venue as Guyana observed its 44th Independence Anniversary.
The event which was coordinated by Ministry of Culture Youth and Sport saw the audience being treated to songs, joint services displays, and the traditional fireworks extravaganza among others.
Some of Guyana’s leading artistes titillated the huge gathering. There were performances from Road March Queen Vanilla, Soca monarch Bonesman, the Mighty Rebel, Creation Express.
There were also splendid performances by an Indigenous Group, Classique Dance Troupe and Nrityageet among others.
The sound of steel pan music also thrilled the crowd. There were medleys by the National Steel Orchestra as well as the National Schools Steelband.
The men and women of the Guyana Police and Defence Forces who formed a truly spectacular Guard of Honour staged a particularly pleasing event for the crowd. They captivated with their precision and were well received by the thousands who had packed the stands of the National park.
Head of State Bharrat Jagdeo arrived some time after 21:30hrs and was well received by the crowd. The people greeted him with a resounding applause as he arrived on the tarmac of the National Park.
Culture Minister Dr Frank Anthony; Prime Minister Samuel Hinds and Commodore Gary Best welcomed Jagdeo among others.
He was invited to inspect the Guard of Honour. This preceded the traditional salute.
After the Guard of Honour marched off the gathering, which included members of, the National Steel Orchestra treated the Diplomatic Corps and Cabinet Members to a folk medley.
Guyanese icon Dave Martins further thrilled the gathering with a medley of his songs.
Also in a cultural presentation some 650 children depicted various aspects of Guyanese customs and traditions.
Their combined performance was stunning.
The Golden Arrowhead was hoisted at midnight followed by the singing of the patriotic song ‘Guyana the Free’ and the four stanzas of the National Anthem.
Seconds after the National Anthem was sung there was the climax of the evening for many which was a brilliant fireworks display that could be seen for miles around.