The Pelican Point Coconut Festival was held Easter weekend for the first time since Hurricane Dorian with all the cultural experiences and entertainment that it is known for.

A number of activities were held over the holiday weekend leading up to the festival on Easter Monday.

On Friday, April 7, the festivities opened with a Gospel Festival and Fish Fry.

On Sunday, April 9, a church service was held at St. Matthew's Baptist Church, and despite inclement weather on Easter Monday, the 23rd Annual Festival closed out the celebrations with its tradition of coconut-themed dishes, sweet treats, drinks and entertainment in the picturesque East End settlement.

"I could not think of a better way to spend this Easter Monday than in your beautiful settlement celebrating community, culture and all the ways we've been working to preserve that culture," said Minister for Grand Bahama Ginger Moxey, who officially opened the festival.

She commended the residents and artisans of the community for their willingness to show up, exhibit their creations and share Bahamian culture, which was on full display at the festival.

Food vendors offered delectable plates of crab, coconut, lobster and rice, fully loaded peas and rice, along with side dishes with a hint of coconut.

The sweet-tooth addicts were able to satisfy their cravings with coconut and potato bread, cakes, tarts and candy. Of course, those desiring refreshments with coconut flavor were not left out.

Rounding off the day was the plaiting of the maypole, the coconut barking contest and Bahamian music by several local entertainers, including GB's Police Pop Band.

Hundreds of tourists and residents packed the sandy, seaside venue and expressed their excitement at the return of the event. For others, like first-time visitor Angie Babineaux of Lafayette, Louisiana, it was a wonderful way to experience Grand Bahama.

"We have a lot of festivals in Louisiana and this is great," exclaimed the school bus driver.

"When we got to the resort and were told about the festival, there was just no way we wanted to miss it. Some of the culture is similar to ours, so we are just enjoying this."

Frank Barajas, who was visiting from Los Angeles, also said this was his first time to the island.

"So far, the festival has been good. The music, the weather, and I can't wait to try the food," Barajas added while waiting in line to get his lunch.

Grand Bahama resident Mildred Johnson was excited to be celebrating Easter Monday at the Coconut Fest in Pelican Point.

"This is my first time here and it is amazing," Johnson said.

"They have a lot of vendors out here with a variety of food and items made with the coconut. So, it is wonderful and everybody seems to be enjoying themselves."

Bridget Davis, who makes coconut and conch shell crafts, said she has been participating in the festival for the past 10 years.

"It is great being back," Davis said.

"I appreciate it, because it is local and features all things Bahamian. The guests and natives can experience the eastern end of the island, local food, the music and fellowship."

Barbara Burrows, who represented Island Supreme Spa, said the festival was a godsend.

"It benefits the vendors and gives guests to the island and residents a place to come and enjoy the holiday," Burrows said.

"It is family orientated, there is the beautiful view, friendly people and great food and products."

Dwight Roberts said he came to give his son, who was visiting from the United States, a taste of Bahamian flavor.

"We had the conch salad and we are going to try some other coconut treats," Roberts said.

He added, "Ultimately, it is great for the people in this area to have this. It's a boost for their economy. We have tourists and natives here supporting the vendors and I love it."

Ministry of Tourism Manager of Groups and Events Nuvolari Chotoosingh commended the Ministry for Grand Bahama for coming together with Tourism and the committee for the return of Coconut Festival.

He said flyers were sent out to resorts, taxi drivers and tour operators.

"So, guests visiting the island were told about the event and tour buses were engaged to transport them to the site," Chotoosingh said.

He also praised Moxey, who, through the "Beautiful Grand Bahama" program, played an integral role in restoring the grounds where the festival is held.

"She did a fantastic job and some heavy lifting to make this event a success," Chotoosingh said. "So, it is great to have the festival back."

The post Despite rain, popular Coconut Festival welcomed back appeared first on The Nassau Guardian.

The post Despite rain, popular Coconut Festival welcomed back appeared first on The Nassau Guardian.

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