Weekly lifestyle update: Independence Day line-up for Pom residents

You thought 40 was a big year for PNG Independence…. Wait until this year’s celebration!

That’s the message that comes with a number of activities happening around the country, leading up to September 16 (Independence Day).

Where will you be? I would say “definitely not in the house”.

The capital city, Port Moresby, will come alive beginning this week with the climax towards the exact date.

Loop PNG brings to you in its Weekly Lifestyle Update, Independence tips that have been topic of discussions among many:

  1. It will be massive as the celebration kicks off with the Independence Street and Music Festival at Paga Hill. Entry is free. It will run from the 15th through to the 17th, a great time for family fun with music, arts and crafts.

 

  1. The first ever Independence Runway will be staged during the Independence Street and Music Festival at Paga Hill. You surely wouldn’t want to miss out on the latest designs by our local fashion designers.

 

  1. Port Moresby National High School will be hosting its fun day at the Stop and Shop Waigani Central car park on September 16. The event is open to the public and will involve fun activities, including performances from students. The students are also selling movie tickets at a discounted price, for those who want to watch a movie at the Paradise Cinema, Central Waigani.

 

  1. Port Moresby Grammar is hosting an Art Exhibition. This is staged on September 16 by its Education & Public Programs and Science Division at the school ground. The exhibition is to showcase the diverse culture and history of PNG in commemoration of the 41st Anniversary of Independence.

 

  1. Black Brothers – The legends come home for Independence Day. The Black Brothers Legendary Tour – featuring a full band line-up, and all your favourite hits! As well as a huge support line-up including DeJays, Paramana Strangers, Banex Oa ,Wahkoo Boys, Jay Lieasi, Brixiie, Yu Yet Yogabatics crew and more! This will be staged at the Sir John Guise Stadium on Independence Day. Tickets available from CHM at Vision City and Tabari Place and only K5 for the outer stand and K30 for the grandstand! Gates open at 4.30pm while show starts at 6.30pm. 

 

  1. TST calls on the public to celebrate with them as their staff dress in bilas and perform traditional dancing from different provinces. Performances will take place out at the front of each outlet at the following times:
  • Waigani 9.30am
  • Hohola 11.30am
  • Boroko 12.30pm

The chain stores are also selling great Independence Day merchandise on specials.

 

  1. Rock and Reggae Night with the Aungee Punks at the Cosmopolitan on September 17, beginning 7pm. The show features 3 bands from Bougainville - Shadow Fools, Mara Ako and The Aungee Punks, who will showcase skills and rocking the night with their Rock and Reggae Hits.

 

  1. It’s never a feast without a pig or two. Celebrate Independence Day with a Boroma pig. They are discounting their big 100kg plus male pigs down to K1,000 each until Saturday (17/9/16).

 

  1. Nothing shows you love for your country more than showing it through clothing or accessories! So get yourself a PNG merchandise from any of Jack's of PNG stores in the nation’s capital. Wear them on Independence Day and show people how much you love your country. 

 

  1. Vision City will also be holding a dance competition on September 16 apart from other fun activities and special independence sales.

 

These are some tips for you, leading up to September 16, if you’re in the big city and still haven’t made plans.

But celebrations are not only limited to Port Moresby. Each province has celebrations planned.

If you’re out and about, remember to:

  • Bring an umbrella and sunnies
  • Hold a water bottle
  • Bring an extra camera battery or power bank for your phone
  • Put extra cash in a secret pocket (to be on the safe side)
  • Wear something traditional or PNG themed, and
  • Have fun!

Happy 41st Anniversary, PNG!

(File picture of street vendors selling provincial flags in anticipation of Independence Day celebrations.)

Author: 
Gloria Bauai