PORT OF SPAIN, August 31, 2023 – Trinidad and Tobago is celebrating its 61st anniversary of Independence today and “from morning to night, spectators and patriots alike can expect a full day of activities,” The Trinidad Express reported in an article published yesterday (Wednesday, August 30)
“Citizens as well as tourists will gather in Port of Spain, the hub of Independence Day celebrations, to experience the annual military parade in the morning and the fireworks display in the evening,” the article noted. “From as early as 6 a.m. on Independence Day, crowds are expected to start arriving at the Queen’s Park Savannah, Port of Spain, to enjoy the invitation-only ceremonial events from the Grand Stand, while spectators without invitations can view the parade from the bleachers at the Savannah.”
Following the ceremonial segment, the military parade, which includes a musical treat provided by the various protective services, will make its way through the streets of the capital city.
In a television interview, Acting Assistant Commissioner of Police Winston Maharaj said there is a parking system in place for spectators. For members of the general public, parking will be available on the eastern side of the Savannah, while there are special parking arrangements for dignitaries, who will be shuttled to the Grand Stand.
“Parking has been a perennial problem, particularly on Independence Day. It is limited and the space has to be shared among participants in the parade and the viewing public. We have a new parking system this year. We have permission to use seven satellite parking lots in proximity to the venue for dignitaries,” he said.
Maharaj urged the public to be mindful of their behaviour during the parade.
“The event is one that the public looks forward to every year because of the pomp and ceremony that the State puts out on display for the general public, he said. “But people need to consider that the parade comprises officers of both armed and unarmed contingents, so members of the public must resist the temptation of getting into the parade. It is not a Carnival band to get into.”
