Premier 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."

Rock star Heather Nova was delighted to be part of this year's Bermuda Festival line-up, particularly as the Island celebrates its 400th anniversary.

"I am very much looking forward to the Festival performance. I remember going to the Festival as a child, and some of the performances had a lasting effect on me. After I saw a string quartet, I started taking violin lessons," said Ms Nova.

"I was filled up, and in fact could not hold back my tears, especially when he referred to his father who 60 years ago would not have been able to eat in a restaurant in Washington DC," said Bermuda's Premier of President Barack Obama's speech.

"I tell my grandkids when they are sitting there staring out the window: somebody else is reading their books because one day they are going to be your boss. In the final analysis it's up to you," rights pioneer Georgine Hill