CUP MATCH IS ALMOST HERE

As I said July is hard month for me sorry NO goodies to report...soon I promise, I am working on jalapeno stuffed shrimp wrapped in bacon.

This Bermuda two day public holiday celebration is bigger than Christmas! Locals venture out in their best dressed to the cricket match, not only to cheer on their favorite team, either Somerset or St. George’s, but also to play Crown and Anchor! Visitors are always welcomed and if you don’t understand either game, ask a local they will be more than willing to explain it to you.

Cup Match is also for CAMPING! Many locals will forgo the match, only to listen on the radio to have a 4 day campout! Many public beaches and parks are invaded by locals setting up camp for 4 days (at least)! This is a high regarded local tradition, so if you are visiting don’t be alarmed, we in Bermuda go do not live in tents!

If you go the game you have to get one of Dottie’s Pies – it is a MUST !

What is Cricket?
Cricket is a game that originated in England centuries ago, it was brought to Bermuda in around 1840s by British Army soldiers who were stationed here, so it’s not unique to Bermuda. It is popular throughout the British Commonwealth of Nations. British cricket arrived for local civilians via Captain J. Moresby of the Royal Navy. The local season is from late April to late September. The Bermuda Cricket Club was founded in St. George's in 1845. However, the festive game began officially in July 1902 between the Somerset Cricket Club in the west end and the St. George's Cricket Club in the east end. Each year the venues change between the clubs. The game became so popular that people would miss work to go out and support their team and as a result we now have the two day holiday know as Cup Match that was officially started in 1947 and we look forward to it every year! Thank you kindly for the two days off guys!

If you are not sure of the color Somerset in DARK BLUE and RED, St. George's in LIGHT BLUE and DARK BLUE. The First day of Cup Match, was formally renamed Emancipation Day and the second day is officially known as Somer's Day. No matter where the game it held you can always play Crown and Anchor, open gambling, this is the only time on Bermuda that gambling is not illegal, so enjoy while you can.

There is so much to see and do at a game, look out for the fashion, ladies and gentlemen take the clothes the pick out for Cup Match very seriously for it is one of the most social events of the year. Oh and the bands and participating musical groups, such a great mix of calypso, reggae, soca, rap and any other music. Don’t worry about going hungry or thirsty; there are plenty of food and drink vendors at the game!

Did you know there are four streets in Bermuda named in honor of cricket?
Fielders Lane
Bat 'n' Ball Lane
Cricket Lane
Grandstand Lane
Take a ride one Sunday and see you can find them!