THE streets and citizens of Bahrain are basking in red and white as the country celebrates its 51st National Day and the 23rd anniversary of His Majesty King Hamad’s accession of to the throne.
Although Bahrain declared its independence on August 15, 1971, which ended almost 150 years of a British role in its affairs, December 16 is marked as the country’s Independence Day in honour of the then Amir His Highness Shaikh Isa bin Salman Al Khalifa’s accession to the throne on December 16, 1961.
The day marks the establishment of the modern Bahraini state as an Arab and Muslim country founded by Ahmed Al Fateh in 1783 and the anniversary of its full membership in the UN.
The kingdom is already glowing as festive lights twinkle in various parts, including the Shaikh Khalifa Al Kabeer Highway, the 16th December Avenue, Adliya Block 338, King Faisal Highway, King Fahad Causeway and Saar Avenue 13.
Landmarks, ministries and malls have been lit up in the red and white colours of the Bahraini flag to mark the special occasion and traffic patrols will be out in full force to deal with massive tailbacks at several key junctions across the country as crowds join the celebrations.
Fireworks will also illuminate the Bahrain International Circuit (BIC) skies in Sakhir from 7pm onwards and several weekend celebrations have been planned by the various governorates and the Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities (Baca) to mark the milestone.
Last night, Bahrain Bay hosted a drones and light show, commemorating the country’s celebrations, while Baca kicked off two days of festivities with musical performances, popular dishes and a lecture in co-operation with the Gulf University at the Bahrain National Museum.
In addition, Al Dana Amphitheatre hosted a National Day concert last night featuring singers Nabeel Shuail, Mutref Almutref and Abdullah Alrowaished.
The Hamad Town Model Youth Centre also hosted a special festival last night, featuring entertainment, games, food, popular shows and contests.
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