June 23, 2017: The Food and Folk Fair returned after a two year hiatus to an appreciative audience on Sunday, June 18, 2017 at the Queen’s Park Savannah, Port of Spain. This cultural extravaganza - promoting traditional dishes, craft, folk and cultural traditions – had the expected showers but this did not deter patrons from enjoying the festivities.
From as early as 5am, the Namdevco Farmers’ Market kick-started the Food and Folk Fair. Hordes of people braved the early morning showers to get deals on fresh local produce. This gave way to the morning’s proceedings which provided a rich taste of Authentic Best Village with cultural performances, a preview of Ms. La Reine Rive Queens and presentations from the growing artform of spoken word. The best of Trinidad and Tobago’s handicraft artisans plied their trade to fascinated and responsive patrons. And as the morning progressed and the crowds grew, the aroma of freshly seasoned meat simmering in iron pots filled the air as the Menu of the Day competition kicked off at 11am. There was a wide array of dishes available from nineteen (19) communities across Trinidad and Tobago. Patrons were able to enjoy a real Sunday lunch in a spacious breezy area for dining backed by the beautiful northern range. The winners for the Menu of the Day was Bon Bassa Productions with Geera Rice, Tawa Chicken, Dhal, fresh Salad and Local Fruit Juice.
In her address to patrons, Dr. the Honourable Nyan Gadsby-Dolly, Minister of Community Development, Culture and the Arts set the tone for what the afternoon would bring, “During the course of the day, you will experience everything from our folk characters, to our food in the Menu of the Day Competition. This Fair also gives our future generations a deeper understanding of the richness of our culture and heritage.”
Attractions included the People of Tomorrow Village where children were (re)introduced to the Maypole, games like moral, hop scotch, marble pitch, jump rope and more. There was also a Story-Telling Session by Aunty Thea and jump rope demonstrations. However, one of the most exciting and innovative educational experiences was the Local Folklore Horror House which featured many of Trinidad and Tobago’s folk characters like Douens and the La Diablesse. Many who dared to go in spoke about how authentic and innovative the idea was and hoped the Ministry would do it again.
It was Father’s Day after all and they were not to be forgotten, as several dads received hampers and other tokens of appreciation. The evening MC was Sonny Bling and he did not disappoint. He got the crowds going with his infectious mannerism and charisma. The day’s activities closed with a cultural show which included energetic performances by Reason, Baron, Devon Seales, Rikki Jai and a half hour set by Iwer George.
The Prime Minister’s Best Village Trophy Competition is an annual competition under the Best Village Unit, Ministry of Community Development, Culture and the Arts designed to promote, enhance and preserve the nation’s diverse, indigenous culture.
Folk Character Horror House: These eerie douens were part of the Folk Character Horror House at the Food and Folk Fair at the Queen’s Park Savannah, Port of Spain.
These youngsters had the chance to participate in a Maypole Dance at the Children of Tomorrow Village.
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For further information please contact:
The Corporate Communications Unit
Ministry of Community Development, Culture and the Arts
868-624-5004