weekend to celebrate the 222nd birthday of the United States.

Host US Consul General Robert Farmer has invited members of the American Society, Corporation of Hamilton, Government, and the Opposition to his annual July 4 Independence Day celebration. He will be accompanied by Master of Ceremonies Edward Bottone, otherwise known as "The Curious Cook''.

The event will conclude with a fireworks display.

"This is the third year in a row we have had such a large celebration here, and it has gotten better every year,'' Mr. Farmer said. "I wish we could accommodate more people, but unfortunately, we just don't have the space.'' For security reasons, all guests will be issued with wristband identification required to enter the premises.

Those who have already confirmed their attendance are asked to collect their wristband from the offices of the US Consulate on Middle Road, Devonshire between today and Friday from 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.

The celebration has been wholly subsidised by corporate donations solicited by Mr. Farmer.

Eighty-five volunteers from the American Society have also donated their time to make the event possible.

In a press release, the US Consulate Office stated: "The event is being organised both as a celebration of US Independence and as a way of bringing Americans and Bermudians closer together.''