Holetown Festival is still relevant to several of the vendors and patrons who continue to support the events yearly.
General manager at Caribbean Craft Creations, Denise Thomas, was one of the artisans who gave her assessment yesterday during the street fair on the penultimate day of the week-long festival.
“I have been doing this for the past 12 years. It’s always been good, but I think it’s getting better.
“The festival has been going great so far this year and the support of the patrons has been excellent,” Thomas said.
She spoke after showcasing their leather shoes, belts, bags, wallets and other accessories to patrons.
Thomas said she continued to receive support from the committee and several repeat customers who also visit when they set up at the festival.
“I love the public and I think the organising of the festival is really good. Everything is on time . . . and that keeps me coming back,” she added.
Enjoyed it
Entrepreneur Shamani said although sales varied from day to day, he enjoyed plying his trade at the festival.
“My brother and I have been coming for about 20 years. I like the atmosphere; there are a lot of people.
“Yesterday wasn’t that great, [today] is going okay but [tomorrow] should be better. If you make something or you don’t, that is still okay, but I will always come back,” he said.
He displayed various vases and household items.
Several children were captivated by the toucan, parrots, budgies and other birds that Steve “Birdman” Edwards had on display. He was also pleased with how yesterday went.
“I am thankful for the sales. Sales were very good and whatever I get, I am content with,” Edwards said.
This year’s festival – held under the theme Elements Of Nature: We Gather, We Celebrate – began on February 9 and ends today.
Over 100 vendors were set up along the streets of Holetown. Many were located on the lawns situated near the Chattel Village.
Clear skies and sunny conditions allowed for the festivities to flourish, especially the street parade, which was witnessed by scores of people.
Just after noon organisers said no violent incidents were reported.
Both local and visiting families supported the small business owners who plied their trade.
Barbadian Marcia Cyrus faithfully attends many of the events yearly. She maintained that the festival was still valuable.
“I don’t agree that it’s no longer relevant. I
like to come and see the craft and watch the vintage cars. We go to the Tattoo and watch the Police Band.
“I still find it is really a refreshing time to come and relax,” Cyrus said.
Although it was United Kingdom visitor Melanie Martin’s first time at the festival, she is a repeat visitor to Barbados.
“We live in the UK, so it’s very cold and rainy there so we come back because of the people and the weather,” Martin said.
She was accompanied by her family, who were walking along the chattel village.
When asked what led to them attending this year, she replied: “I’ve passed Holetown many times but I’d never been. This year I saw it being advertised so I thought it would be a great opportunity to see more of the island.” (TG)
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