Elena, an accountant from Bridgetown, Barbados, thought she knew what a good carnival looked like. But when she arrived in Georgetown in late February, she was swept up in Mashramani—Guyana’s Republic Day celebration that brought the entire country to life.
Mashramani, meaning “celebration after hard work,” marks the day Guyana became a republic on February 23, 1970. Elena joined thousands of revelers at the Mash Day Parade, where floats decked in bright colors made their way through the streets. The air was filled with the sound of soca and steelpan, and performers in dazzling costumes danced to the music. Elena couldn’t resist joining in, her feet moving to the infectious rhythm.
The festival wasn’t just about the parade. At D’Urban Park, she explored cultural displays showcasing Guyana’s diversity. From Indigenous dances to Afro-Guyanese drumming, each performance told a story of the nation’s heritage. “This isn’t just a carnival,” Elena thought. “It’s a celebration of who Guyana is.”
Food vendors lined the streets, offering traditional dishes like pepperpot, pholourie, and spicy grilled fish. Elena’s favorite was the cassava ball, a crispy snack she couldn’t get enough of.
The celebration continued into the night with a massive street party along the Seawall, where DJs played a mix of Afrobeat, reggae, and chutney music. As fireworks lit up the sky, Elena reflected on the energy and unity she had witnessed. Mashramani wasn’t just a party—it was a declaration of pride, resilience, and joy.
