21st Annual Pelican Point Coconut Festival
The 21st Annual Pelican Point Coconut Festival was deemed a success as residents and visitors spent their Easter holiday at the Pelican Point Festival site in East Grand Bahama.
The festival, which featured coconut themed dishes and pastries from local vendors, included live musical entertainment, heritage themed games and several Junkanoo selections which gave attendees the opportunity to participate in authentic Bahamian cultural activities.
Deputy Prime Minister K. Peter Turnquest said, “We are very pleased with the growth that the Festival has seen for the last couple of years. I think this is a testament and it is refreshing to see the adding of new elements to the activities, which is attracting all the guests.”
“Of course, this is a beautiful location with a wonderful and spectacular beach, which showcases what Grand Bahama has to offer in terms of natural beauty. ”
Mr. Turnquest noted that though the people of Pelican Point started out coconut farming and that economic activity died out; the residents continued the tradition while also celebrating their heritage through the event.
As many of the heritage festivals are important to the continuation of Bahamian culture, it is imperative that events such as the Pelican Point Coconut Festival continue to expand.
Elaine Smith, Coordinator, Groups and Events, Ministry of Tourism and Aviation, said, “This year, the committee has done a tremendous job in improving the festival site with cleared parking (due to a partnership with local contractor, A & D Gaitors Construction), additional vendors and new activities which help to grow the settlement’s signature coconut festival.”
She added that “Since its inception 21 years ago, I have only seen growth and I wish to thank the Pelican Point Coconut Festival Committee and their local community for their commitment in executing this signature Grand Bahamian event.”
Pelican Point Coconut Festival Committee Chairman Kathy Laing said, “My goal is to partner with all the festivals in the east of the island and make this one community.”
“Everything was organized really well, and we try to improve on all aspects of our work every year, including entertainment. From the day we started out with Pelican Point Coconut Festival, we exceeded much of our expectations, because it started out big and it keeps growing.”
Approximately 8,000 persons attended this year’s festival, inclusive of 400 international visitors. The Ministry of Tourism and Aviation is a proud sponsor of the Pelican Point Coconut Festival.