Preparation is underway in Labasa to host this year’s Fiji Day celebrations.

Since last week, Labasa Town has been busy after the arrival of about 500 soldiers and around 50 police officers.

These defence personnel along with about 160 civilians will be taking part in the celebration on Wednesday.

The day program begins with a march at 10am from Y Corner through town to Subrail Park by school children, members of the private and public sectors and various communities.

The program will begin proper at Subrail Park followed by a Military parade.

A 21 gun salute will be observed during the celebration.

The day will culminate with a Military Tattoo at 6pm where Subrail Park will erupt in flashing lights, with a display of the Military and Police Marching Bands together with school children from selected schools.

And in real friendly North spirit, the noble banner blue hangs on both sides of the main street in town.

Labasa Chamber of Commerce Satish Kumar says the celebration will be good for the economy of the town.

The theme for this year’s celebration is “Progressing Together Leaving No Fijian Behind”.