Registration is now open for next year’s Agrofest and exhibitors are being encouraged to register early for the 2009 showcase. It is slated to take place February 27 to March 1, under the theme: ‘Agrofest …Going Green’.
According to Agrofest Coordinator, Theodore Fraser, persons had been making queries about registration since April, and the process commenced on Tuesday, July 1.
“Exhibitors are being urged to register early to book their spots because we anticipate a large number of exhibitors. In 2006 Agrofest attracted approximately 35,000 patrons, in 2007 approximately 38,000 and this year a whopping 40,000 plus patrons over the three-day weekend. In 2009 as we seek to expand and broaden the exhibition area it is projected that approximately 45 to 50,000 persons will visit the exhibition,” he said.
Exhibits for the 2009 extravaganza will be divided into seven major categories:
Section A – Information Booth/Agrofest Secretariat, Health & Wellness, Relaxation area
Section B – Craft Village, Clothing, Shoppers Bazaar, Games of chance, Educational & Business ;
Section C – Horticulture (general), Petting zoo, kids’ snacks, toys & hot dogs etc, Birds & Bees;
Section D – Children entertainment area, Playground, toys and children’s snacks;
Section E – Food Court & seating area(s);
Section F – Entertainment, Stage, Financial/Insurance Service Providers;
Section G – (Spartan Pasture) , Major Agricultural Exhibits, Farm equipment, Agro-Processing, Primary & Secondary Schools’ display, Animals (food and pens), Farmers market, Fruit & vegetable displays.
Registration will be available at the Agrofest Secretariat, C/O Barbados Agricultural Society, “The Grotto”, Beckles Road, St. Michael. Monday to Friday 9.00 a.m. – 4.00 p.m. Additional information may be obtained from the BAS at telephone numberL246) 436-6683/84, fax: (246) -435-0651 or by email: bdosagriculturalsociety@caribsurf.com or agrofest@caribsurf.com.
Agrofest, Barbados’ premier National Agricultural Exhibition, provides patrons with a unique opportunity to experience all the facets of Barbados’ agricultural sector in a relaxed and comfortable environment. Its mandate is to sensitise Barbadians to the value of the agricultural sector, with a view to creating a society, which supports and appreciates the concept of food security, while recognising that the sector’s sustainability hinges on linkages with other sectors.Agrofest also seeks to highlight the career opportunities available to young people in Barbados’ Agricultural Sector. (CG)