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As Spring time warms other parts of the world, May brings Guyana’s rainy season which will last until the end of June. Above normal rainfall can result in flooding along the coast so be sure to take the necessary precautions when driving during this time.

May also brings celebrations as Guyana has many important national holidays during this month, with its 57th anniversary of Independence from Britain being on top of that list.

Holidays in May

Labour Day – May 1st

Labour Day is an annual national holiday in Guyana that celebrates workers’ rights. On this day workers march peacefully along the streets of Georgetown in combination with the Unions which represent their rights and freedom in the workforce.

The marching workers are usually attired in red and white which lends credence to their struggles as workers and their unions, to gain the rights and freedom for which they march. The march culminates with speeches from many trade unionists who take the opportunity to press for better working conditions for their workers.

Guyana, being a British colony, adopted British Labour Laws from the beginning of the 20th Century and such Laws gave the Unions much protection. Labour was given national recognition and May Day became Labour Day. Labour Day is also associated with Trade Unions and Unionism.

Arrival Day – May 5th

Arrival Day is celebrated annually to commemorate the arrival of various indentured immigrant groups.

Formerly known as Indian Arrival Day, it was first observed to commemorate those who arrived in Guyana from India on May 5th 1838 to work on plantations after the abolition of slavery. On this day a small batch of 396 Indian immigrants landed at Highbury, Berbice in British Guiana from Calcutta, India aboard the SS Whitby and Hesperus .
This was the beginning of the indenture system which was abolished in 1917, by which time a total of some 240,000 indentured servants from India came to Guyana under a system whose essential features were very reminiscent of slavery.

Arrival Day is of great significance; it is a day to appreciate, recognize and honour the arrival and contribution of all Guyana’s ancestors. In the face of numerous adversities, they were able to preserve their cultures, traditions and values. Arrival Day embodies the richness of diversity that makes up what Guyana is today.

Independence Day – May 26th

This holiday commemorates the anniversary of Guyana’s independence from the United Kingdom on the 26th May, 1966, after being ruled by the British for one hundred and fifty-two (152) years.

Guyana changed various colonizers and underwent lots of hardship but was able to emerge as a strong and independent nation. Every year marks another phase of development and progress with the celebration of Independence Day reflecting its rich history and dynamic culture.

Festivities during this time include fireworks, a flag-raising ceremony, crafts, music, fashion, events from private entities and a message to the public from the president. 

If you missed Easter’s Lethem Rodeo, you have an opportunity to visit the Rupununi this Independence weekend. Guyana Tourism Authority has organized with various guides to offer special packages. See details below.

For those of you who are interested in fashion and art this event by Shasha Designs promises to enthrall attendants under the theme “The Lost City”, drawing inspiration from the legend of El Dorado, the city of gold. See the works of Guyana’s creative industry on display.

This event is June 3rd at Marriott Hotel so be sure to get your tickets early as it was sold out last year.

Please note: Stabroek Solutions is not affiliated with any of the companies, organizations or events outlined in this newsletter.