In celebration of Barbados' 50th Anniversary of Independence, the Government of Barbados, through a designated Co-ordinating Committee and Secretariat, has planned a number of exciting events and activities during the month of November, leading up to the finale on Independence Day, November 30, 2016.

Prior events held this month have already attracted the attendance of several proud and patriotic Barbadians and friends of Barbados, while the remaining events are also expected to attract a record attendance.

One of the signature events is The Prime Minister's Dinner & Ball, which will be held on Friday, November 25, 2016, at 7:00p.m. Billed as an elegant black-tie affair, the event will be set on the beautifully decorated grounds of Ilaro Court, the official residence of the Prime Minister, The Right Honourable Freundel Stuart, Q.C., M.P. Guests will get the opportunity to don their full evening, formal attire, meet the Prime Minister on arrival and savour the finest cuisine designed and prepared by the award winning Barbados Culinary Team. Additionally, guests will have the option of Banquet Dining or dining At a Chef's Table.

Entertainment will include the 1688 Collective, 50th Anniversary Jazz Ensemble, Krosfyah, Red Plastic Bag, the Mighty Grynner and the hosting of a fashion parade showcasing signature looks of Barbadian fashion from 1966 to 2016.

Other iconic events in the schedule of activities include Nostalgia, an elegant cocktail celebration of Barbados' momentous achievements. It will be held on Tuesday, November 22, 2016, from 8:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m. at Ilaro Court. The event will feature a cultural journey of Barbadian music, fashion, talent and cuisine. Entertainment will be provided by the world renowned Troubadours and other popular artistes, while the best of NIFCA talent will be showcased.

On Sunday, November 27, 2016, a 50th Anniversary Service of Thanksgiving will be held at the Kensington Oval at 4:00 p.m. This service of thanksgiving will celebrate the 50 years Barbados has spent as an independent nation and the many successes the island has achieved.

The Human Chain Link will be attempted for the second time in Barbados' history on Monday, November 28. From 9:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., thousands of persons will gather at strategic points along the estimated 107 km route to complete the chain. School children, businesses and members of the public are expected to participate in the exercise, in which miniature tridents will be passed along the chain.

The 50th Anniversary of Independence National Monument will be revealed on Tuesday, November 29, 2016, at 10:30 a.m. at the Garrison Savannah. This short, impactful, public ceremony will showcase the monument, which will house a time capsule and the oversized national flag designed to be flown 24 hours a day.

On the morning of Independence Day, November 30, 2016, there will be the 50th Anniversary of Independence Parade from 8:00 a.m. at the Garrison Savannah. This year will see an enhanced military parade, with the addition of foreign troops, which will add to the spectacle with an extended display.

The climax of events will take place on the night of Independence in the form of a Golden Anniversary Spectacular Mega Concert at 8:00 p.m. at the Kensington Oval. Thousands are expected to converge to witness a cultural spectacular befitting of Barbados's 50th Anniversary of Independence. This celebration will highlight the amazing emerging talent Barbados has to offer. Barbadian international superstar, Rihanna will also be performing.

All Barbadians, friends of Barbados and visitors to the island are invited to be a part of Barbados' 50th Anniversary celebrations and join in the various events and activities planned for the occasion. For further information on the schedule of events, visit https://www.50barbados.com/ or call the Secretariat at (246) 430-0045.

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