A Cultural Food Fair, Book and Art Expo will be held tomorrow November 24, as part of activities to observe Culture and Tourism month.

This staple event to be hosted by the Department of Culture will showcase the Virgin Islands culture primarily through local cuisine and literary arts and provide opportunities for residents and visitors to indulge in local delicacies and treats.

Deputy Director of Culture Ms. Anne Lennard said the Department is excited to once again be staging its grand cultural food fair and that it is one of the most anticipated events for Culture and Tourism month.

Ms. Lennard expressed that this year’s food fair is expected to attract a wider audience, since additional cultural traditions, activities, and exhibitions will be incorporated into the day-long activities.

“Along with some of your favorite local foods and delicacies, we have now added a mini book and art expo which will also highlight and promote the work of Virgin Islands creatives,” the Deputy Director said, adding, “We take this opportunity to invite everyone to the Food Fair, Book & Art Expo. It promises to be a grand time.”

The day’s activities will begin 10:00 a.m. at the Noel Lloyd Positive Action Movement Park and will conclude at 5:00 p.m.

Patrons can delight their taste buds with the Territorial dish of fungi and fish; johnny cakes, saltfish, peas soup, stewed mutton, fish in mayonnaise sauce, maubi, ginger beer, limeade and golden apple, gooseberry juice.

Attendees will also witness the highly anticipated Caribbean Insurers Limited Coconut Tart Competition, where 21 of the Territory’s best bakers will converge and demonstrate their culinary talents.

Fungi bands, including Zion Sounds and Four Strong, will provide live entertainment while cultural icon Mr. Elmore Stoutt will facilitate a story telling session to entertain, inform and promote the rich Virgin Islands traditions and values.

Book lovers can also purchase books written by local authors including Janice Nibbs, Andria Flax, Hildegarde Flax Shaw, Janice George Harris, Arona Fahie Forbes, Marilyn Malone Bass, Gracia Wheatley Smith, Catlyn Benjamin, David Turnbull and the Late Carlile Scott.

The food fair is expected to create lively atmosphere, and an opportunity for persons to partake in culturally significant experiences through local cuisine, literary arts, metal craft, pottery and other heritage exhibits and cultural activities.

The Government of the Virgin Islands’ vision is a Virgin Islands where all Virgin Islanders feel a sense of belonging and pride, and actively participate in cultural activities that reflect their heritage and ultimately enrich their lives.