The Tribune

The Ministry of Tourism is inviting visitors to experience Grand Bahama’s flavours, stories and cultural traditions when the third annual West End Bootleggers & Seafood Festival returns on Saturday, November 28.

Set to be hosted by the Ministry at the Artis Neely Grounds in West End, the festival will offer an evening of Bahamian cuisine, music, culture and culinary creativity. The celebration honours West End’s role in the movement of rum during the American Prohibition era and its enduring identity as a fishing and seafood community. 

Seafood will take centre stage with a menu featuring Bahamian fried fish, lobster, cracked conch, seafood cakes, seafood pizza, conch fritters, lobster spring rolls and other local favourites. 

“West End’s story is deeply connected to the sea, and this festival brings that history to life through the food, culture and creativity of the community,” said Jackson Weech, director-general in the Ministry of Tourism.

“Its maritime heritage and compelling connection to the Prohibition era reveal another dimension of Grand Bahama for international visitors, while creating opportunities for local businesses and emerging culinary talent. This is tourism rooted in place, with Bahamian communities sharing traditions that are unmistakably their own.” 

Between 4pm to 10pm that Saturday, the festival will offer six hours of community spirit, entertainment, seafood and authentic cultural experiences in the area affectionately known as the ‘Best End’ of Grand Bahama. This year’s celebration is supported by Bristol Wines & Spirits, The View, Grand Bahama Power Company, Carnival and the Grand Bahama Island Promotion Board. 

West End’s bootlegging history will be celebrated through the Bootleggers Mixology Competition. Bartenders representing local establishments will demonstrate their skills before lead judge Ramon Webb, a Grand Bahama native and winner of last year’s competition.

Separate categories for residents and visitors will invite participants to create cocktails at the festival using local ingredients and rum supplied by event sponsors. The programme will include dance performances by Olivi’A Entertainment and a Junkanoo rush by the West End Conquerors.

Featured performers will include Lil Joe Cartwright & The Trouble Band, Phase 4 Band, Larry Johnson & The Island Vibes Band, Rycon Bahamas, Shine242 and Kirkland Bodie. A Visitors Mystery Basket challenge and culinary demonstrations by secondary school students will complete the experience. 

The programme will also showcase the next generation of Grand Bahama’s culinary talent. The Junior Chefs culinary experience expands this year from three schools to four, with students from Sir Jack Hayward High School, St. George’s High School, Eight Mile Rock High School and Bishop Michael Eldon School preparing dishes live at the festival.