MASHRAMANI celebrations continued on February 27 in the mining town of Linden, Region Ten, where hundreds of Lindeners turned out to participate in the float parade which included revellers from both Georgetown and Linden. Some of the bands in the parade included Banks DIH, Digicel, the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport, and the Linden Technical Institute (LTI).  Even though there were not as many bands as seen in Georgetown, the spectators were full of excitement as they joined the parade heading to the McKenzie Sports Club Ground.

When compared to previous years, this year’s Mashramani celebration in Linden was one to remember, Lindeners said. 
On February 23, 1970, the first Mashramani float parade was held in Linden and was a huge success with Guyanese from all the administrative regions, flocking to the mining town. After years of rotating the activities among Linden, Berbice and Georgetown, it was decided that the Mashramani float parade should remain in Georgetown.
Despite this decision, Lindeners and Berbicians continue to have their parades to celebrate Guyana’s republic status, as was seen at the weekend.       
A float parade was also held in Region Six on Sunday.         
The main event which was held on February 23 in Georgetown was attended by hundreds of Guyanese who lined Church Street and Vlissengen Road as they viewed the many colourful floats and energetic revellers.
Mashramani activities are observed yearly to celebrate Guyana becoming a republic, which was accomplished 41 years ago, on February 23, 1970. (GINA)