The Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc. (BTMI) recently unveiled details for the highly-anticipated 2023 Barbados Food and Rum Festival.
After a two-year hiatus, the 12th edition of this gustatory celebration is scheduled from October 19 to 22 under the theme: “Feed the Future”.
Embracing culinary legacy
Stepping into its 12th year, the festival promises an exquisite fusion of local and global culinary talents.
Harriet Smith, Business Development Officer of the BTMI, emphasized how pivotal the festival is in positioning Barbados as the gastronomic epicenter of the Caribbean.
A notable highlight this year is the Bajan Fair, a 12-hour family-focused extravaganza.
According to Smith, part proceeds from the festival will go towards the grand prize of this year’s junior chef cookoff competition.
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Evolution of the festival
Initially kickstarted in 2009 in collaboration with Travel and Leisure, the event was originally titled “The Barbados Food, Wine, and Rum Festival.”
It underwent a name evolution in 2016 to better encapsulate Barbados’ rich legacy as the cradle of rum.
Today, the Barbados Food and Rum Festival stands as a global magnet for culinary enthusiasts.
Worldwide acclaim
Earning its mark on the global culinary map, the festival boasts a nomination for the “Caribbean Best Culinary Festival” at the 2023 World Culinary Awards.
This annual program, now in its fourth year, is an ode to the luminaries of the food world.
International flair and local delights
Visitors to the 2023 festival can anticipate a constellation of culinary stars.
The line-up features luminaries such as Anne Burrell of Food Network, UK’s Shelina Permalloo, Colombia’s Juan Diego, and Renee Blackman from Pressure Cooker.
Afrobeat dynamo, Ayra Starr, is set to amplify the festivities at the Liquid Gold Feast. Further amplifying the local essence, 23 Barbadian chefs and mixologists are slated to showcase their craft.
Savoring memories: Flavours of the festival
This year’s festival introduces an additional treat for epicureans: “Flavours of the Festival”, a cookbook encapsulating the genius of the festival’s official chefs and mixologists.
Attendees can procure a copy at official event pop-ups or designated merchandise outlets.
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