Thousands of people crammed onto Front Street not to see in the New Year, but for the first event celebrating Bermuda's 400th anniversary.

An amazing display of acrobatics, fireworks, Gombey dancing and marching by the Regiment kicked off the year-long celebrations.

And at the time the Country's leaders called on Bermudians to make 2009 a year of memories.

Premier Dr. Ewart Brown said: "As we celebrate 400 years of continuous habitation in Bermuda, let's also reconnect to the fascinating stories of our forefathers.

"Let's make 2009 a year we'll remember for the next 100."

The then Minister of Community and Cultural Affair, Dale Butler said: "Celebrating our 400th anniversary is a major milestone for all Bermudians, because it allows us to reflect on our beginnings and our evolution as a nation in waiting."

Opposition Leader Kim Swan challenged Bermudians to come closer as a people and added: "This is a glorious opportunity for us to move further along that arc, to recognise our success as a people, to take pride in the things we have done right, to affirm the values we share and use the lessons of our history to continue building toward that better Bermuda.

"Ultimately, the goal for the celebration of 400 years should be to bring us closer together as one people."

Chairman of the 2009 Steering Committee, Conchita Ming said: "What a wonderful way to start the year.

"This is really to celebrate Bermuda and her people.

"One of the things we are trying to say is that were celebrating the journey of Bermuda over the 400 years.

"It's not only about the shipwreck in 1609; it's about the journey and how far we've come.

"I think the important thing is the theme, celebrating Bermuda and her people.

"That is what we are trying to emphasise throughout everything we do. A celebration of who we are as a people. We want to celebrate us.

Mrs. Ming continued: "It's going to be so exciting. There is something for the whole family and I think that's really key."