Yesterday was a holiday to commemorate the city’s birthday so we asked our friends Michel and Margarida along with Jordina if they would be willing to accompany us into the city to observe and participate in some of the special activities. We left to catch a ride on a chapa around 8:00 am. We got off the chapa at the “Park of Heroes” where we followed the crowd to the center where we waited for quite a while for the ceremonies to begin. After about an hour or so a ceremony began in which local authorities, military personnel, local police and special guests walked up single file to place flowers at the foot of a memorial for those who had fought for independence.
The military band played various numbers through out the whole time as the rest of us stood and watched. After it was over we took some time to walk around the park, take some pictures and then we hiked through the city by all the closed stores and shops to the municipal building where the rest of the activities would take place. By the time we arrived the crowd had pretty much closed off the view for about everyone but me and those who were able to climb up in one of the trees that lined the street. I was very thankful for my height as I was able to stand behind everyone and hold my camera up over my head to get some photos.
The local police force paraded in front of the local dignitaries and special guests after which each one was given an opportunity to greet the crowd. Once the final greeting was made there were some groups that presented cultural dances for entertainment. The morning festivities ended around noon so we headed home. All in all it was a fun morning where we were able to get to know the city and some of its history better, interact with our new friends and definitely enjoy more African culture.
