The Island Eats Food and Tourism Festival took place this weekend at Mel Lastman Square, showcasing several Caribbean nations, including Cuba, Jamaica, Guyana, the Dominican Republic, and Trinidad and Tobago.
Over the course of the two-day event, attendees enjoyed authentic Caribbean cuisine, refreshing beverages, live performances by artists from across the islands, an interactive steelpan drumming experience, and a vibrant, festive atmosphere.
A major highlight was the Grace Junior Chef Challenge, an exciting showcase of emerging culinary talent where the innovative ideas and creativity of young Caribbean chefs merged with bold, traditional flavors.
Festivalgoers delighted in regional delicacies such as jerk chicken, doubles, and pepper pot. The "Breeze and Brews" bar also proved highly popular, serving tropical mocktails, craft cocktails, and classic Caribbean beers.
Complementing the culinary offerings, live steelpan performances at the "Rhythm & Pan on D' Greens" stage—along with infectious regional rhythms like calypso, reggae, and dancehall—kept the energy high throughout the weekend.
For those eager to move, the festival offered free, drop-in dance classes in soca, dancehall, and salsa, culminating in a community dance showcase on the final day of the event.
Cuba was well-represented by the Cuba Tourist Board in Canada. The Cuban pavilion attracted a steady stream of visitors, showcasing premium products like the island's highly sought-after organic honey, alongside diverse vacation packages that generated significant interest among prospective travelers.
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