VG READY: Walwyn says festival well marketed

Minister responsible for culture Myron Walwyn said his checks have revealed that Virgin Gorda is ready for the golden anniversary of its Easter festival, adding that the three-day celebration that starts today (April 15) has been well marketed locally and overseas.

“We got out [with marketing] a lot earlier than we normally would have gotten out in previous years. An outreach was made to Virgin Gordans who are living abroad as well as other persons in the [United] States and in the Caribbean and the Greater Virgin Islands to come out and support the festivities.”

“I think a lot has been done particularly from the Tourist Board perspective. I want to thank them very much for what they have done in terms of advertising the festivities – particularly Lynette Harrigan who is in charge of that section of the Virgin Islands Festival and Fairs Committee,” Walwyn told BVI News Online.

While he underscored the importance of people also ensuring that peace is maintained throughout the event, the minister expressed confidence that the economic spin off will be significant.

“Based on the reports that I have been getting from the Virgin Islands Festival and Fairs Committee, I think we are in for a very good festival this year – worthy of 50 years. First and foremost, we want to make sure that we stress safety; that we come out and enjoy the festivities in a very safe way as we honour the persons who we know did a very good job in terms of starting the festival and bringing it to where it is. We should honour their hard work by making sure that we assist and participate in the festivities.”

“I know many of the vendors look forward to doing business along the parade route. And I Know they are going to benefit a lot more this year than in previous years,” added Walwyn.

He further stated that he is pleased with the frugal way in which the Virgin Gorda sub-committee has been conducting its affairs so far.

“Things are going fairly well. They are trying their best to stick on the budgetary allocation that was given to them. I know they are trying as well to pay their bills as they move along and so on. They seem to be in pretty good standing so far,” Walwyn said.

The Easter festival, this year, is being held in honour of Bernice Sprauve, who is a founding member of the Virign Gorda festivities. Other founding members are Andy Flax, Rupert Ephraim, Rose Gardener, the late Ivy O’Neal, and the late Robinson O’Neal.

The festivities will kick-off today with the 21st Annual Fisherman’s Jamboree at the Mermaid Dockside.

There will also be a Food Fair, starting at 10am. At this event, there will be a plethora of activities including cooking competitions and local musical entertainment.

The festival village will then officially open with performances by Sistah Joyce and Hardcore Band out of Virgin Gorda, VIBE out of Tortola, Jah Cure out of Jamaica, as well as Rock City and Stylee Band out of St Thomas in the US Virgin Islands.