Taste meets tradition at Food and Rum Festival

The Barbados Food and Rum Festival 2024 is gearing up to be an extraordinary celebration of culinary excellence as it marks its 13th year. Scheduled from October 24 to 27, the festival promises an expanded lineup that highlights the island’s rich gastronomic heritage and its status as the birthplace of rum.

This year, the festival has garnered international acclaim, being nominated for the Caribbean’s Best Culinary Festival at the 2024 World Culinary Awards. Additionally, the capital city of Bridgetown is in the running for the Caribbean’s Best Emerging Culinary City Destination, further solidifying Barbados’ reputation on the global culinary stage.

April Thomas, director of public relations and public communications at the Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc (BTMI), said the event has evolved into one of the island’s “most highly anticipated signature events.” The festival is set to showcase local culinary talent alongside international stars, creating a vibrant atmosphere for food enthusiasts.

Leading up to the main event, a month of activities will include popular features such as the Oistins Under the Stars cooking demonstration and the Rum Route rum-hop. The grand Liquid Gold Feast at the Concorde Experience will offer attendees an evening filled with premium cocktails and gourmet cuisine.

This year also sees a collaboration with the Fork Festival, which will take place on October 5 at the Malt Cave Visitors Center. The Bajan Fair will introduce a family-friendly element, with rides, activities, and food vendors, aiming to attract a broader audience.

Renowned international chefs, including Michelin-starred Michael O’Hare and South African celebrity chef Wandile Mabaso, will join 29 local chefs and mixologists, including head chef Henderson Butcher and head mixologist Jamaal Bowen.

Andrea Franklin, CEO of the BTMI, said this year’s festival’s was “particularly momentous as it arrives at a time of significant recognition for Barbados on the global culinary stage.”

The festival’s ongoing Feed the Future theme underscores its commitment to nurturing emerging talent, featuring a Junior Chef Cup competition that offers young cooks the chance to win a $3,000 grand prize, along with scholarship and internship opportunities.

“These nominations are not merely symbolic recognitions, but are a testament to the profound and enduring culinary heritage that Barbados boasts,” Franklin said.

“They speak volumes about the extraordinary talent and dedication of our chefs, mixologists, and culinary artisans who persistently push boundaries and set new standards in the global culinary arena,” she added.