Plans for the Easter Monday Coconut Festival in Pelican Point were announced on Monday during a press conference at Banana Bay. Shown from left to right are: Ernest Roberts, committee member; Eleanor Laing Steward, committee member; Elaine Smith, Ministry of Tourism; Ralph Roberts, committee member; Donna Laing Jones, committee member; and standing is Gina Turner, Ministry of Tourism. (BIS Photo/Andrew Miller)

GRAND BAHAMA, The Bahamas - Plans for the 17th Annual Coconut Festival in Pelican Point, East Grand Bahama, on Easter Monday were announced on Monday, during a press conference at Banana Bay.

During the festival, which will be held from 11am to 8pm on Monday, April 6, there will be a showcase of culture with live performances by The Grand Bahama Royal Bahamas Police Force Pop Band, Veronica Bishop and Kirk "K.B." Bodie.

Describing cultural festival as an integral part of the island's tourism product, Elaine Smith, Coordinator Product Department of the Ministry of Tourism said, "we recognize the importance of these celebrations that tell the story of our past and highlight the rich value of our Bahamian history."

As is the custom of the festival, all things made from coconuts will be on display. These items include but are not limited to coconut jimmy, coconut shrimp, coconut tart, jams and preserves, arts and crafts, jewellery and Bahamian speciality, Gully Wash.

Contests taking place will be coconut barking, coconut bowling, coconut tart eating and gully wash sucking bottle.

With this year being the introduction of Junkanoo Carnival, the Bahamas Junkanoo Carnival Models will also be featured. Their appearance will help the crowd shift into gear for the kickoff of the first annual Bahamas Junkanoo Carnival, scheduled for April 17 and 18 at Taino Beach.

A press release issued by the Ministry of Tourism said, "The organizing committee, headed by members of the Thomas, Laing, Roberts and Cooper families, in partnership with the Ministry of Tourism and corporate sponsors, are committed to keeping their down-home traditions alive."

Betty Bethel, Director for the Ministry of Tourism, Grand Bahama Island said, "The economic benefit to this community that will be derived from a venture such as the Coconut Festival will be well over 2,500 visitors' and residents' attendance and a conservative $50,000 injection into the local economy.

"With the increased air arrivals from Canada and the United States and the increased hotel occupancy levels at this time, the Ministry of Tourism is confident that this year's event will exceed its expectation of visitor attendees, and all will be guaranteed a ‘wow’ experience."