TODAY is Mash Day when Guyana celebrates its 40th anniversary as a Republic with a hectic programme of activities.
But, although the Calypso, Soca and Steel Band competitions, as well as the children’s parades have already been staged, the celebrations would not be complete without the much anticipated Costume Band and Float Parade in Georgetown. A spectacular display of talent and attractively designed costumes of striking colour and glitter, it is expected to attract the participation of large contingents followed by thousands of energetic, gyrating revellers on the streets, dancing to the beat of heavily pulsating hi-fi music sets.
Among them will be at least 500 in the Banks DIH Limited procession and others sponsored by Digicel, Guyana Power & Light (GPL), Ansa Mc Al Trading, Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport and several other ministries,  the Slingshot Band ‘Fan Me’ and others.
Guyanese living here, others returning from overseas and tourists and others are being encouraged to take up their positions along the streets early.
Over the last few days, there was a buzz  of activities around the capital city as people from all about, determined not to miss the revelry, prepared for today.
Cashier queues at commercial banks were long, like at the automated teller machines (ATMs) as people, their desperate last minute bids to get cash, patiently awaited their turns.
Shopping centres, municipal markets and other business places, especially in Water, Regent and Robb Streets were also busy.
Because people tend to become unusually dress conscious, clothing and cloth are sold more than at any other festive occasion on the calendar.
The Guyana Police Force (GPF) has made efforts to ensure shopping in the busy streets is much safer and the Traffic Department announced new arrangements, indicating street closures.
Meanwhile, parents are busily organising to take food baskets so that their children’s eating needs would not only depend on the numerous vendors, as Mash Day has come to be  recognised as a family celebration, picnic style, in the streets.
If you do not have a lot of cash to spend for Mash, cook and pack the picnic baskets and ensure you team up with family members or friends, not losing sight of the fact that Guyana is a Co-operative Republic.
Mashramani, an Amerindian word meaning celebration after  hard work, is an unwinding being celebrated this year under the theme ‘Celebrating our Heritage; Embracing our Diversity’.
In the procession today will be a delightfully entertaining fusion of the best works of artists and entertainers, blending sounds, synchrony and melody with a riot of colour.
Put on a pair of flat footwear, dark glasses and cap or bandana to protect your head from the intensity of the sun’s heat amidst global warming that can have serious adverse effects on your health as you enjoy Mash Day.