Thousands of Guyanese expatriates from every corner of the world arrived in Georgetown, Guyana, over the last week to a festive welcome when they disembarked from several carriers at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport, to revel in the country’s 50th Jubilee Independence Anniversary celebrations.
The nationals, many dressed in colors of Guyana’s golden Arrowhead flag, and laden with carryon luggage, stopped to capture the colorfully decorated façade of the airport before being greeted by masqueraders in costumes of the six races at the walkway leading to the terminal.
The terminal that also showcased images of Guyana’s rich cultural heritage, and beautiful landscape welcomed the nationals with steelpan music and a sign that read Coming Home.
Gifts of mini Guyana flags and memorabilia were handed out as expats and visitors snapped images of the arrivals and festive spirit, along the way.
The lines to clear immigration, and baggage claim, were very long, but the travellers were never deterred, instead, they waited patiently, and at times were seen hugging and greeting each other with handshakes, and expression of ‘Happy Independence Anniversary,’ before exiting the airport for a week or two of festivities.
The streets of Georgetown that are beautifully decorated in national colors of red, white, green, black and gold, will be alight with Jubilation and pride of this historic achievement, that will be commemorated with a flag raising ceremony at the newly constructed Durban Stadium in Georgetown, on Thursday May 26, the date Guyana became independent from British rule.
Under the theme, Reflect, Celebrate, Inspire, the festivities that started on May 1, for a month-long celebration, will continue with fashion shows, sporting events, conferences and a carnival float parade.
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