‘Bula’ pronounced boo-lah is a Fijian word that means a variety of things: its literal meaning is ‘life’, and when used as a greeting it is a wish for your happiness, good health and the energy of life. Everywhere you go in Fiji from the moment you arrive on our shores you will hear the word ‘Bula’ enthusiastically ring out. We as Fijians whether in our tropical island home or elsewhere in the world, all strive to embody the ‘Bula spirit’ one of sharing and caring with a huge dollop of fun and happiness thrown in.
The Bula festival is therefore aptly named as we aim to share our way of life by showcasing our culture through traditional practices, song and dance and food and drink. Showcased as well will be all the diverse and multi-cultural communities that make up the service population within Defence and across the UK. It will also be an opportunity to enhance relationships with the non-military community: to share and learn from each other, and where possible, exploit opportunities for growth.
Over the three days of the Festival, there will be live rugby, interactive sporting events and amusement rides for the youngsters, amazing bands and musicians, local food and drink vendors, arts and crafts stalls and many, many other offerings to create a truly vibrant festival atmosphere.
The Bula Festival UK 2023 will also include a Festival of Praise on the third day, where the community will come together for a day of praise, worship and celebration with an opportunity for all faiths to attend and where we will showcase bands, choirs and various other performances. Food and drink stalls will also remain open to cater for attendees.
