It's considered quite a privilege to get an invite to the Governor's for a party.
But next month the grounds of Government House will be opened up to the pubic to enjoy a Picnic Concert celebrating Bermuda's 400th anniversary.
There will be live music, a picnic delivery service and continuous shuttles to and from Bull's Head Car Park.
There will be the eclectic sounds of Joy Barnsum and her backing band The Channel, a range of performances from the music and spoken word collective Chewstick, as well as tunes from Bermuda's sax legend Wendell 'Shine' Hayward.
Conchita Ming, who chairs on the 400th Committee organizing the event said: "His Excellency had announced in January at the launch of our anniversary year that he and Lady Gozney were interested in hosting Bermuda in the grounds of Government House. They have just been looking for the right type of occasion.
Low key
"They wanted it to be a low key free event with local entertainment and that's what we have organized.
"Throughout the year we have been trying to offer it up to as many locals as possible. We have tried not to duplicate the artists in any of the anniversary events."
Government House puts on events throughout the year but they are strictly by invitation only. This is the first occasion that the grounds have been opened up to the whole community. The 400 Committee is anticipating that around 2,500 people will attend. If it rains the event will be cancelled.
"One of the fun things about this is the picnic box lunches which will be available to pre-order and delivered up there," added Ms. Ming.
"We have just got the menus for that and there is a nice variety of food with different price ranges.
"It's an interesting concept so people just need to come with their blankets and chairs and just enjoy the ambience of Government House which is a beautiful property.
Amenable
"The Governor and Lady Gozney will be there, they will be amenable and will be wondering around.
"People will be able to come and pick their spot from 3pm which I'm sure they will!"
There will be a number of giveaways and memorabilia on the day.
Admission is free but concert wristbands must be worn. They are available from The Bermuda 2009 Office, The Musicbox, David Winston, The Bermuda Bookstore, all visitor information centres and The Bookmart.
There will be limited parking for those with special needs.
Picnic at the Governor's?
- What: Picnic Concert with Joy T. Barnum and The Channel, Chewstick and Wendel 'Shine' Hayward
- Where: Government House grounds
- When: Sunday, 11 October
- Time: 4pm to 7pm
- Tickets: Available free from The Bermuda 2009 Office, The Musicbox, David Winston, The Bermuda Bookstore, all visitor information centres and The Bookmart. There is a limit of six wristbands per person
- Admission: Free
- Shuttle service: Provided from Bull's Head Car Park from 3pm to 8pm
- Picnic order: Picnic baskets can be ordered online from www.diningbermuda.com or by calling 236-6517. Meals will be delivered to Government Hoiuse grounds on teh day of hte concert.
