FREEPORT, Grand Bahama - With everyone beginning to cement their holiday plans, the Bahamas National Trust (BNT) is hoping that Festival Noel is on the holiday calendar of everyone that will be in Grand Bahama this festive season.
The planning of this year's festival, which celebrates 20 years of success, is underway with the highlights of the festival - the food and the music - confirmed for December 5.
"After last year's exciting event, we are thrilled to see most of our restaurants returning," said Sarah Kirkby, Festival Noel Committee member. "Agave and Red Beard's both secured their spots for this year and we are delighted that 'Dive-In Restaurant and Bar' will join us for the first time."
Thanks to Bahamas
Wholesale Agency, each restaurant is given product to help to assist them with feeding the large numbers of guests that pour into the Rand Nature Centre for the BNT's only annual fundraiser in Freeport. "We are also confirming one last restaurant and it will be their debut with us as well," said Kirkby. "These restaurants will compete for the coveted Chef Noel 2014 title - voted on by our guests."
Rounding out the food on offer will be the Grand Bahama Shipyard apprentices and bosses, roasting the annual pig during the usually chilly evening. According to organizers, the shipyard has been a great supporter of the trust in Grand Bahama and this will be its second year cooking, but its third year giving financial support to the event.
In addition to great food, Festival Noel always treats guests to great music. Joining the event this year will be "The First Taste Band" led by Nat Cambridge. This innovative band combines the most talented young singers from Grand Bahama and both new and veteran musicians.
Back again to kick off the holiday season is the band "Two Left Feet", which thrilled the attendees last year and had guests dancing in the stage area. "Two Left Feet" is a five-person band comprised of Holiday Soul, Drew Moree, Ramon Webb, Rolland Webb and Shawn Swain. The band was formed in 2011 and has played at many charity events throughout Grand Bahama.
"Last year's bands brought the house down," said Karin Sanchez, BNT council member and Festival Noel committee member. "We loved the feedback about the night and knew that the live entertainment really made the evening magical. We hope to evoke the same fun this year and sell out on our 20th year of Festival Noel."
Tickets go on sale this week at Bristol Wines and Spirits, the Rand Nature Centre, Art of Giving and Barefoot Marketing. BNT members will need to purchase tickets at the Rand Nature Centre to receive their early purchase discount. For more information, interested persons can visit the BNT's Facebook page, the Festival Noel 2014 event page or call 242-352-5438.

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