Last year, Tobago’s Annual Blue Food Festival was rated by the US Cable Channel CNN as one of the World’s best food festivals.

In 2016, organisers are seeking to stage an even better event for the festival’s 18th edition on October 16 at the Bloody Bay Recreation Ground.

The Blue Food Festival provides a unique twist on traditional culinary events, highlighting one of the island’s commonly used indigenous foods, the dasheen.

At Wednesday’s post Executive Council media briefing, Secretary of Tourism and Transportation Assemblyman Tracy Davidson-Celestine said the village councils of Bloody Bay, L’Anse Fourmi and Parlatuvier on Tobago’s north coast are collaborating with the Division to stage the event from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

“The fair has evolved and continues to intrigue and attract many locals as well as visitors regional and international interested in sampling the innovative entrees, inventive appetisers, creative desserts and robust liqueurs on sale,” the Tourism Secretary pointed out.

She added that all menus are prepared by locals of these communities, who display their unique culinary skills and highlight innovative ways to use the dasheen.

Assemblyman Davidson-Celestine said along with the delightful cuisine, the event will feature live entertainment, a kids’ fun zone, live demonstrations and other attractions.

“In essence, the Blue food event marks a significant achievement of community and state partnership,” Davidson-Celestine said, “and consistently presents an opportunity to promote Destination Tobago, stimulate economic and entrepreneurial activity, and showcase to the world the island’s mouth-watering signature delicacies.”